Relating to furniture and or fastener mountings

ABSTRACT

The invention provides for canopy designs for furniture, mountings for attaching such canopies to resin and plastic frames to tubular frames. Methods of mounting and methods of assembly are also provided.

The present invention is concerned with improvements in and relating tofurniture and/or nursery equipment and/or canopies, particularly, thoughnot exclusively, in relation to recreational furniture such as loungersor recliners. In another form this invention concerns improvements inand relating to fastener mountings, particularly for use in mountingcanopies, sunshades and the like to furniture or to nursery equipment,such as prams, push chairs and the like. In yet another form thisinvention concerns improvements in relation to fastener mountings,particularly for use in mounting canopies, sunshades and the like tofurniture.

The use of recreational furniture such as loungers, recliners and deckchairs has become increasingly prevalent over recent years. Suchfurniture is now commonly found in use in many gardens. Moreover, thecollapsible nature of much of this furniture means that is often takenon family trips such as picnics, caravan holidays and trips to the beachHoliday resorts and cruise liners also provide a large market forrecreational furniture.

In order to enhance the utility of such furniture the present inventionseeks to provide attachment of a variety of accessories to one or moreparts of the furniture. The invention also seeks to provide a variety ofuseful and versatile accessories for such items of furniture. Theinvention also seeks to provide this attachment in a manner suitable foruse on a wide variety of recreational furniture types irrespective ofthe framework they employ. The invention also seeks to provideaccessories with an attachment suitable for attachment to a wide varietyof recreational furniture types irrespective of their manufacturer. Theinvention also seeks to provide the attachment in a manner sufficientlyeasy to attach and detach as to be attractive to users who need toperform such operations regularly and in great numbers. The inventionalso seeks to provide canopies which are useful in a variety of othersituations, including on nursery equipment.

When providing a mounting for a fastener to which a canopy can beattached problems are faced by existing mounting designs. Particularproblems are faced in terms of an effective mounting for attachment totubular frames. The problems are even more acute or unaddressed in theprior art where retrofitting to existing assembled frames is required.

The present invention has amongst its aims to provide a secure mountingfor one part of a fastener system. The present invention is aimed atboth providing secure mountings on new items and on items to whichretrofitting is required. The present invention has amongst its aims toprovide a secure mounting which fits effectively to a range of differentframe configurations. The present invention has amongst its aims toprovide a mounting %which is suited to retrofitting. The presentinvention has amongst its aims to provide a mounting which is easilyattached to existing assembled frames.

When providing a mounting for a fastener to make sure a canopy can beattached problems are faced by existing by existing mounting designs.Such problems occur with frames of various materials and in the contextof frames used for various purposes, but particular problems are facedin terms of providing an effective mounting on resin frames, such asthose often used for furniture. These problems are particularly acuteand are unaddressed by the prior art in the context of retrofitting suchfastener mountings to existing assembled frames.

The present invention has amongst its aims to provide a secure mountingfor one part of a fastener system. The present invention has amongst itsaims to provide a secure mounting which fits effectively to a range ofdifferent frame configurations. The present invention has amongst itsaims to provide a mounting which is suited to retrofitting. The presentinvention has amongst its aims to provide a mounting which is easilyattached to existing plastic frames.

According to a first aspect of the invention we provide a canopy, thecanopy including: a first part which includes a first arm, the first armbeing provided with a first component of a fastener system at or towardsone end, the first arm being provided with a joint at or towards theother end; a second part which includes a second arm, the jointconnecting the second arm to the first arm, the joint allowing theorientation of the first arm to the second arm to be varied, the secondarm being provided with a second joint, the second arm supporting ascreen; a third part which includes a further arm, the second jointconnecting the further arm to the second arm, the second joint allowingthe orientation of the second arm to the further arm to be varied, thefurther arm supporting a screen; and wherein the second part and thirdpart are adjustable in angle relative to one another.

The second arm may be connected to the further arm indirectly andpreferably through a third arm. Preferably pairs of first and/or secondand/or third and/or further arms are provided.

The canopy may provide screening or protection against the sun. Thecanopy may provide at least 75% or even at least 90% effective shadeagainst the sun. The canopy may be formed of a fabric which allows airmovement through it, particularly to accommodate wind. The shadeprovided by one or more portions of the canopy may be increased by usingthe canopy with the second arm and the further arm folded togetherand/or by using the canopy with the second arm and third arm foldedtogether and/or by using the canopy with the third arm and the furtherarm folded together.

The attachment is preferably by means of a two part fastener system. Thetwo part fastener system preferably includes a second component providedon the item. Preferably the first component and second componentreleasably engage one another to provide the attachment. Preferably thefirst component and second component can be released and/or attached byeither hand of a user.

The item of furniture may be a chair, a deckchair, a lounger, arecliner, a seat or a reclining seat. The item of furniture may seat oneor more persons.

The first arm is preferably attached to the first component by means ofa mounting. Preferably the mounting includes a part that receives theend of the first arm. Preferably a sliding fit is provided. One or moreelements, such as cooperating lugs and recesses, may be provided toretain the mounting and first arm in position relative to one.

Preferably the first component is connected to the mounting by anelement which can be rotated relative to the mounting. The rotatableelement may be received within a channel. Preferably the rotatableelement is mounted on a pin, ideally a pin spanning the channel. Themounting may join a first side part and a second side part. Preferablythe first and second side parts define the channel. The element may be adisc element. The first and/or second side parts may have correspondingprofiles to the element. Preferably a pin is provided mounted in anaperture in a first side part, passes through an aperture in the elementand is mounted in an aperture in the second side part. The rotatableelement may be free to rotate or may be releasably fixed in position.Preferably the part of the mounting which receives the arm is providedon one of the side parts. The part of the mounting which receives thearm may span between the two side parts.

Preferably the rotatable element is connected to the continuation partof the first component. The rotatable element may be connected direct tothe body portion of the first component.

The first component may be offset compared with the axis of the firstarm. The first component may be closer to the front surface of theupright part of the item of furniture than the first arm in use.

The first component may be a male component The second component may bea female component. Preferably a body portion of the first component isreceived within the second component during attachment. Preferably theleading edge of the body portion of the first component is inserted intothe second component first during attachment.

Preferably the body portion of the first component is connected to acontinuation portion. Preferably a part of the continuation portionextends out of the second component in the attached stated. Preferablyone or more dependant arms extend from the leading edge of the bodyportion. Preferably the one or more dependant arms extend away from theleading edge towards the continuation portion. Preferably a gap isdefined between each of the one or more arms and the body portion. Eacharm is preferably provided with a lug or protrusion. Preferably the lugor protrusion cooperates with a part of the second component. Preferablydeforming the arm into its gap causes the attachment to be released. Thearms may be provided with a gripper portion towards its end. Preferablythe continuation part of the first component is mounted on the supportarm.

The length of the first arm may be adjustable. The length may beadjusted by telescoping one part of the first arm inside another part ofthe first arm. Preferably the length can be fixed using a releasablefixing. Preferably the first arm is linear. The length of the first armmay be variable. Preferably one or more repeat units can be used to varythe length of a first arm. Preferably a first joint is attached to oneend and a part of the fastener is attached to the other end. Preferablythe repeat unit is provided with a recess at one end. Preferably therepeat unit is provided with a protrusion at the other end.

Preferably the protrusion is configured to match the recess. Theprotrusion may be in the form of a pin.

The first arm may be a rectangular cross-section.

Preferably two first arms are provided. Preferably the two first armsare of equivalent configuration. A screen may be provided between thetwo first arms. One or more strips of material may be provided betweenthe two first arms. The gap between the two first arms may be left open.

The first joint may be provided at the end of the first arm. The firstjoint may be an integral part of the first arm or may be a separatecomponent. The first arm may be connected to the joint by a pin whichpasses through the arm and is connected to the joint. The same pin mayconnected the second arm to the first joint or a different pin may beused. Preferably the pin connects the first joint on a first first armwith the first joint on a second first aim. The pin may provide supportand/or a mount for a screen and/or material provided between the firstarms and/or provided between the second arms.

The first arm or arms and/or joints therefor and/or first component orcomponents of the fastener system are preferably separate componentsfrom one another.

The first arm may be received in a groove in a block which is a part ofthe joint. Preferably the first arm is clamped in the groove by a knob.The second arm may be received in a groove in a block which is a part ofthe first joint. Preferably the second arm is clamped in the groove by afurther knob on the other side of the joint to the first. Preferably theblocks are different blocks. The block for the first arm may cooperatewith the knob for the joint. Preferably rotation of the knob in onedirection allows the orientation of the first arm and second arm to bevaried. Preferably rotation of the knob in the other direction causesthe orientation of the first and second arms to be fixed. Preferably therotation releases or fixes a fixing in the joint. The rachet may takethe form of a series of radially extending ridges provided on a surface,such a surface being provided for each part of the joint, the surfacescarry the ridges engaging with one another. One part of the joint may beprovided with a raised portion, sucha s a boss, which surround the axisof rotation. The other part of the joint may be provided with a recessedportion around the axis of rotation. Preferably the two cooperate withone another to assist in the positioning of the two parts of the jointrelative to one another. One or more of the joints, particularly thefirst joint, may be provided with free rotation between the limit in onedirection and the limit in the other direction. A resistance may beprovided to the initial movement away from one or both of the limits ofrotation. The limit of rotation, particularly for the first joint may beprovided by a protrusion and stop which avut one another at the limit.The stop may be provided with or consist of a metal component. A pin maybe provided in a plastic web in one preferred form. The protrusionpreferably moves within a channel defined by the other part of the jointto that which carries the projection. A further projection may beprovided which also cooperates with a stop at the limit of rotation. Thefurther projection may be provided on the outside of the joint.Preferably the projection rotates within an external channel in theother part of the joint The channel may be open sided. The projectionand further projection may be radially and circumferentially spacedapart. The spacing may be between 90 and 270 degrees, more preferablybetween 160 and 200 degrees. The internal channel may be strengthened byone or more cross pieces.

Preferably a fixing is provided in each of the first joints. Preferablythe one knob releases or fixes the fixing in both first joints.

The fixing is preferably provided by two surfaces capable of releasableengagement. The engagement surfaces may be spring loaded to urge themapart. Preferably both surfaces are provided with splines. The surfacesmay alternatively be provided with teeth and recesses, pins andapertures or other cooperating systems. Preferably one of the surfacesis provided on an element which is mounted on the first block.Preferably the other of the surfaces is mounted on the second block.

Preferably the two first joints are the same, except only one isprovided with the knob for releasing/fixing the joints and hence thefirst and second arm positions.

The second joint may be provided with an equivalent structure to thefirst joint. Alternatively the second joint may be provided with thefollowing structure, with the first joint potentially having thatstructure too. The second joint on one side may be linked to the secondjoint on the other side by an element. The element may be a rod. Theelement may be provided within a part of the frame, for instance across-arm. The joint may include a first block and a second block.Preferably the first and second blocks engage one another throughengagement surfaces. The engagement surfaces may be provided withsplines and/or teeth and recesses and/or pins and apertures and/or othercooperating systems. The cross-arm may engage with one of the blocks,ideally through a recess in the block which is of matching profile tothe cross-sectional profile of the cross-arm. The first block may beprovided with a recess which receives an arm, preferably a second arm.The second block may be provided with a recess which receives an arm,preferably a further arm. Preferably a knob is provided in engagementwith the element at one end of the element. Preferably the other end ofthe element, at the other joint, is provided with a cap. Preferablyrotation of the knob in one direction releases the engagement surfacesto allow rotation. Preferably rotation of the knob in the otherdirection tightens the engagement between the engagement surfaces.Preferably one direction of rotation increase the separation of the knoband cap. Preferably rotation in the other direction decreases theseparation of the knob and cap. Preferably a spring is provided to urgethe engagement surfaces into contact with one another. The spring may beprovide around the element. The spring may engage the knob and/or aportion of the element such as a nut provided thereon.

The second arm or arms and/or second joints and/or further arm or armsare preferably separate components from one another.

The second component is preferably recessed into the item of furniture.The second component may be recessed into the frame of the item offurniture and preferably into the top of the frame. The second componentmay be recessed into a member which is then attached to the frame of theitem of furniture. The member may be of wood. A cover may be provided tosurround the second component and/or cover the top of the recess intowhich the second component is inserted and/or cover the junction betweenthe frame material and the second component.

Preferably a second component is provided for each first component. Thesecond component may be provided with an aperture or recess whichcooperates with a part of the first component, ideally with a lug orprotrusion provided on one or more of the arms of the first component.The second component may be provided with one or more grooves, ridges orsurfaces to guide the first component during insertion into the secondcomponent and/or control the position of the first component in thesecond component after attachment.

The axis of insertion and/or removal of the first component relative tothe second component may be inclined relative to the axis of the firstarm. The axis of insertion and/or removal for a first first componentmay be inclined relative to the axis of insertion and/or removal for asecond first component. Preferably each axis is inclined to the sameextent, but in opposite directions. Preferably the continuation of eachaxis in the direction of insertion extend towards one another.

The length of the second arm may be adjustable. The length may beadjusted by telescoping one part of the second arm inside another partof the second arm. The length can be fixed using a releasable fixing.Preferably the second arm is of fixed length. Preferably the second armis linear. The second arm may be a rectangular cross-section.

Preferably two second arms are provided. Preferably the two second armsare of equivalent configuration. A screen may be provided between thetwo second arms. One or more strips of material may be provided betweenthe two second arms.

The second joint may be provided with an equivalent structure to thatset out above for the first joint, but in this case connecting thesecond arm and further arm.

Preferably the two second joints are the same, except only one isprovided with the knob for releasing/fixing the joints and hence thesecond and further arm positions.

Preferably the second joint is provided at the end of the second arm.Preferably the second joint allows the position of the second andfurther arm to be adjusted relative to one another.

The further arm may be a single arm, particularly when the further armis the end arm. The single arm may curve round from one second joint tothe other, for instance in a semi circle. The further arm may beprovided together with a second further arm. The further arms may belinked by a link arm. The further arms and link arm may be connected bycorner pieces. The corner pieces may be of plastic. A screen may beprovided between the further arms and/or further arms and link arm.

Preferably a single screen is provided between the further arms andbetween the second arms. A plurality of strips may be provided betweenthe further arms and/or between the second arms and/or between the firstarms. The strips may be provided overlapping or abutting one another orwith a small gap there between.

One or more of the screens may of PVC coated polyester. Yarns may beused to form the screen or screens. The screens may be formed ofweldable material. One or more holes or gaps may be provided in thescreen or screens.

The canopy may be in three sections. The first section is preferablydefined by a pair of first arms and a link between the first joints. Thesecond section is preferably defined by a pair of second arms, the linkbetween the first joints and a link between the second joints. The thirdsection is preferably defined by the further arm or arms, andpotentially link arm, and the link between the second joints.

Alternatively the canopy may be in four or more sections. The firstsection is preferably defined by a pair of first arms and a link betweenthe first joints. The second section is preferably defined by a pair ofsecond arms, the link between the first joints and the link between thesecond joints. The third section is preferably defined by a pair offurther arms, the link between the second joints and the link betweenthe further joints. Further sections may be provided in an equivalentmanner to the third section. The fourth and/or final section ispreferably defined by the still further arm or arms and potentially astill further link arm, and the link between the further joints.

Preferably the separation between the first arms is less than theseparation between the second arms. In this way the first arms may beaccomodated between the second arms in the folded state. Preferably thefirst arms are shorter than the second arms. Preferably the separationbetween the further arms is less than the separation between the thirdarms. In this way the further arms may be accomodated between the thirdarms in the folded state. Preferably the further arms are shorter thanthe third arms. Preferably the second and third arms fold against oneanother. Preferably the third arms are shorter than the second arms,preferably such that the joints between the third arms and the furtherarms are inside the end of the second arms in the folded state.

Preferably the first section of the canopy is generally verticallyprovided in use. Preferably the second section is generally angled up,in the direction of the link between the second joints, in use.Preferably the third section is generally angled down towards its end inuse.

The canopy is preferably foldable. The first section may be foldedagainst the second section. Preferably the second section is foldedtowards the third section, with the first section between the secondsection and third section. Preferably the canopy folds flat, forinstance so that its maximum thickness, measured perpendicular to itsmaximum length, is less than 5% of the maximum length.

Preferably the separation between the two arms of the first section isless than the separation between the two arms of the second section.Preferably this configuration is provided such that the first sectionmay be folded in between the arms of the second section. A particularlylow profile folding structure may be provided as a result. Preferablythe separation between the two arms of the third section and theseparation between the two arms of the second section are equivalent toone another. Preferably the configuration is provided such that the armsof the second section and the arms of the third section fold against oneanother.

Preferably the canopy material of the first section and/or secondsection and/or third section and/or further sections is connected to atleast an adjacent section by a part of the canopy material. Preferablythe part of the canopy material which provides the connection extendsbetween the one section and the other section around the inside of thejoint and/or around the side of the joint post when the sections cometogether in the folded configuration.

Preferably the rotation of the first arm relative to the second arm isrestricted in its extent. Preferably the rotation of the second armrelative to the third arm and/or further arm is restricted in itsextent. Preferably the rotation of the third arm relative to the furtherarm is restricted in its extent. The rotation may be restricted by astop which abuts the arm or a part of the joint which rotates therewith,when the limit of rotation is reached. At or close to the limit ofrotation a resistance may be provided to rotation back in the otherdirection. A click style locking into position may be provided.Resistance to rotation may be provided at one or more intermediateextents of rotation. Such resistance may be provided by a rachetmechanism. Preferably the restriction is provided in the joint betweenthe respective arms. Preferably the second arm is allowed to rotate froma fully folded position, for instance a storage position in which thefirst arm and second arm are adjacent to one another, through a range ofangles to a fully unfolded position. Preferably the range of angles isless than 340°, and ideally 270° or less. Preferably the third and/orfurther arm is allowed to rotate from a fully folded position, forinstance a storage position in which the third and/or further arm andfirst arm are adjacent one another, through a range of angles to a fullyunfolded position. Preferably the range of angles is less than 340°, andideally 270° or less. Preferably the restriction to the second armrotation and/or third arm and/or further arm rotation restricts theirdownwards movement towards the seat in use.

The two first arms may be parallel to one another. The second arms maybe parallel to one another. The third arms may be parallel to oneanother. The further arms may be parallel to one another. The first,second, third and further arms may be parallel to one another, at leastwhen viewed in one plane.

The second component may be attached to the item of furniture by areleasable clamp, particularly in the case of tubular furniture. Theclamp preferably engages with a part of the frame of the item offurniture. The part may be a top part of the frame, for instance agenerally horizontal part of the frame. The part may be a side part ofthe frame, for instance a generally vertical part of the frame.Preferably the second component is attached to the clamp by a rotatablemounting. The rotatable mounting may be formed by a pin which passesthrough an aperture in the second component and which the clamp. The pinpreferably engages both jaws of the clamp. The pin may be rotatable inone direction to open the clamp by movement of the jaws. The pin may berotatable in the other direction to close the clamp and preferably alsoto fix the orientation of the second component relative to the clamp. Asplined engagement between the second component and the clamp and/orbetween the second component and a head piece for the pin may beprovided to fix the orientation of the second component relative to theclamp.

The clamp may include two opposing jaws. Preferably the pin adjusts theseparation of the jaws. The jaws may each be provided with a recess toaccommodate the frame to be clamped. The hinge between the jaws may be aflexible hinge.

The second component may be attached to the item of furniture by amounting. The mounting may be slid onto a part of the frame of the itemof furniture, particularly in the case of tubular furniture. Themounting may be provided with an aperture, preferably a throughaperture, which receives a part of the frame of the item of furniture.The aperture is preferably of a cross-section which matches thecross-section of the part of the frame of the item of furniture which itreceives. One or more engagements may be provided between the mountingand the frame. The frame may be provided with one or more apertures,grooves or recesses which receive a part provided on the mounting, forinstance a pin.

Preferably the canopy is stackable with canopies of the same type.

Preferably the first arm or arms is short than the second and/or thirdand/or further arm or arms. Preferably the further arm or arms areshorter than the second and/or third arm or arms. Preferably the thirdarm or arms are shorter than the second arm or arms. Preferably the linkbetween the first arms or first joints and/or the link between thesecond arms or second joints and/or the link between the third arms orthird joints are of the same length and/or design and/or dimensions.Preferably the second and third joint, at least, are of the same design.

The first aspect of the invention may include any of the features,options or possibilities set out elsewhere in this document, includingin particular those of the second aspect of the invention.

According to a second aspect of the invention we provide a A method ofattaching a canopy to an item, the method including: providing the itemwith one or more second components of a fastener system; providing acanopy, the canopy including: a first part which includes a first arm,the first arm being provided with a first component of a fastener systemat or towards one end, the first arm being provided with a joint at ortowards the other end; a second part which includes a second arm, thejoint connecting the second arm to the first arm, the joint allowing theorientation of the first arm to the second arm to be varied, the secondarm being provided with a second joint, the second arm supporting ascreen; a third part which includes a further arm, the second jointconnecting the further arm to the second am, the second joint allowingthe orientation of the second arm to the further arm to be varied, thefurther arm supporting a screen; and wherein the second part and thethird part are adjustable in angle relative to one another; the methodfurther including connecting the first component of the fastener systemto the second component.

The method of attaching may include the insertion of a part of onecomponent, preferably the first component, into the other component,preferably the second component. The insertion of the component into theother may cause a part, particularly one or more dependant arms, todeform from a first position to a second position. Preferably continuedinsertion causes the part to move back towards the first position,particularly when one or more lugs or protrusions on one of thecomponents enter one or more apertures or recesses on the othercomponent.

Preferably the canopy is attached to the item by moving the canopytowards the item from a position above the item. Preferably a downward,generally vertical movement is used to achieve the attachment.

The second aspect of the invention may include any of the features,options or possibilities set out elsewhere in this document, includingin particular those of the first aspect of the invention.

The second aspect of the invention may include any of the features,options or possibilities set out elsewhere in this document, includingin particular those of the first aspect of the invention.

According to a third aspect of the invention we provide a table forattachment to an item of furniture, the table including a supportsurface, one or more support arms, the support arms depending from thesupport surface, each support arm being provided, at or towards the endaway from the support surface, with a first component of a fastenersystem.

The table may be for supporting a drink and/or food and/or containerstherefore.

The attachment is preferably by means of a two part fastener system. Thetwo part fastener system preferably provides a second component on theitem. Preferably the first component and second component releasablyengage one another to provide the attachment. Preferably the attachmentcan be achieved by presenting the first component to the second in afirst orientation and can be achieved by presenting the first componentto the second in a second orientation. The second orientation may be a180° rotation relative to the first orientation. Preferably the firstcomponent and second component can be released and/or attached by eitherhand of a user.

The attachment may be made to one arm of the item of furniture or may bemade to the other arm of the furniture or may be made to both armssimultaneously. The attachment may position the table over the seatportion of the item. The attachment may position the table to the sideof the item. The attachment position may be changed from time to time.

The item of furniture may be a chair, a deckchair, a lounger, arecliner, a seat or a reclining seat. The item of furniture may seat oneor more persons.

The support surface may be planar. The support surface may besurrounded, totally or in part, by a raised edge or rim. The supportsurface may be rectangular. The support surface may be of the samematerial as the table or may include a surface of a different material,for instance a non-slip material.

The table may be provided with to support arms. Preferably the one ormore support arms are linear. Preferably the one or more support armsare of the same length. The length of the support arms may beadjustable. Preferably the one or more support arms depend from theunderside of the support surface. Preferably the one or more supportarms extend generally perpendicularly away from the support surface. Theone or more support arms may be provided towards one edge of the tableor support surface in preference to one or more of the other edges. Theone or more support arms may be provided towards one edge, the armsbeing at a location 10% or less of the distance between the edge and itsopposing edge.

The first component may be a male component. The second component may bea female component. Preferably a body portion of the first component isreceived within the second component during attachment. Preferably theleading edge of the body portion of the first component is inserted intothe second component first during attachment.

Preferably the body portion of the first component is connected to acontinuation portion. Preferably a part of the continuation portionextends out of the second component in the attached stated. Preferablyone or more dependant arms extend from the leading edge of the bodyportion. Preferably the one or more dependant arms extend away from theleading edge towards the continuation portion. Preferably a gap isdefined between each of the one or more arms and the body portion. Eacharm is preferably provided with a lug or protrusion. Preferably the lugor protrusion cooperates with a part of the second component. Preferablydeforming the arm into its gap causes the attachment to be released. Thearms may be provided with a gripper portion towards its end. Preferablythe continuation part of the first component is mounted on the supportarm.

The second component is preferably recessed into the item of furniture.The second component may be recessed into the arm of the item offurniture and preferably into the top surface of the arm Preferably asecond component is provided for each first component. The secondcomponent may be provided with an aperture or recess which cooperateswith a part of the first component, ideally with a lug or protrusionprovided on one or more of the arms of the first component. The secondcomponent may be provided with one or more grooves, ridges or surfacesto guide the first component during insertion into the second componentand/or control the position of the first component in the secondcomponent after attachment.

Preferably the table is stackable with other tables of the same type.One or more, and preferably all of the support arms may be foldable.Preferably a support arm folds up under the support surface, ideallyinto a substantially flat configuration. Preferably the extent of thesupport arms is within the profile of the support surface in this foldedposition.

The third aspect of the invention may include any of the features,options or possibilities set out elsewhere in this document, includingin particular those of the fourth and fifth aspects of the invention.

According to a fourth aspect of the invention we provide a method ofattaching a table to an item of furniture, the method includingproviding an item of furniture with one or more second components of afastener system, providing a table, the table including a supportsurface and one or more support arms, the support arms depending fromthe support surface, each support arm being provided, at or towards theend away from the support surface, with a first component of thefastener system, connecting the first component of the fastener systemto the second component.

The method of attaching may include the insertion of a part of onecomponent, preferably the first component, into the other component,preferably the second component. The insertion of the component into theother may cause a part, particularly one or more dependant arms, todeform from a first position to a second position. Preferably continuedinsertion causes the part to move back towards the first position,particularly when one or more lugs or protrusions on one of thecomponents enter one or more apertures or recesses on the othercomponent.

Preferably the table is attached to the item by moving the table towardsthe item from a position above the item. Preferably a downward,generally vertical movement is used to achieve the attachment.

The method may provide for the attachment of the table to the item inmore than one orientation. The table may be attached to the item in afirst orientation in which the table protrudes across the seat portionof the item. The table may be attached to the item in a secondorientation in which the table protrudes to the side of the item. Thefirst and second orientations may be achieved by attaching the table tothe item in orientations which are at 180° to one another.

The fourth aspect of the invention may include any of the features,options or possibilities set out elsewhere in this document,particularly those of the third and fifth aspects of the invention.

According to a fifth aspect of the invention we provide a method ofserving a drink product or food product, the method including placingthe drink product or food product on a table, the table being at a firstlocation, moving the table to a second location which is different fromthe first and attaching the table to an item of furniture present at thesecond location, the table including a support surface and one or moresupport arms, the support arms depending from the support surface, eachsupport arm being provided, at or towards the end away from the supportsurface, with a first component of a fastener system, the firstcomponent being connected to a second component of the fastener systemat the second location to attach the table to the item of furniture.

The first location may be a bar, kitchen or centralised location for thesupply of food and/or drink. The first location may be accessible toservice staff, but potentially not users of the item of furniture.Preferably the table is brought from the first to the second location inresponse to an order or request for the food and/or drink on the table.Preferably the table is carried by a waiter or other member of servicestaff. Preferably the table is attached to the item of furniture by thewaiter or other member of service staff. Preferably the table isattached to the item of furniture in an orientation of the item offurniture users choice. The table may be detached from the item offurniture when the drink and/or food is finished with. The table may bedetached by the waiter or other member of service staff to return thefinished drink and/or food to the first location.

The fifth aspect of the invention may include any of the features,options or possibilities set out elsewhere in this document,particularly including those in the third and fourth aspects of theinvention.

According to a sixth aspect of the invention we provide an item offurniture for use as a seat, the item of furniture including a secondcomponent of a fastener system, wherein the second component of thefastener system is provided on an arm of the seat, or is provided on theframe of the seat to the side of the seat or is provided on the flame ofthe seat at the back of the seat, the second component being a femalecomponent.

The second component preferably attaches to a first component of thefastener system and in particular to a first fastener of the typeprovided elsewhere in this document. The second component is preferablyrecessed into the seat. The second component may be recessed into thearm of the seat, or into the frame of the seat to the side of the seator into the frame at the back of the seat, preferably at the top thereofA plurality of second components may be provided. Preferably secondcomponents are provided in the top of the back of the seat and either inthe arm of the seat or in the frame to the side of the seat. Preferablytwo second components are provided at each location.

The second component may be provided with an aperture or recess whichcooperates with a part of the first component, ideally with a lug orprotrusion provided on one or more of the arms of the first component.The second component may be provided with one or more grooves, ridges orsurfaces to guide the first component during insertion into the secondcomponent and/or control the position of the first component in thesecond component after attachment.

In an alternative form the second component may be attached to the seatby a releasable clamp, particularly in the case of tubular furniture.The clamp preferably engages with a part of the frame of the seat. Thepart may be a top part of the frame, for instance a generally horizontalpart of the frame, for instance behind the seat The part may be a sidepart of the frame, for instance a generally vertical part of the frame,for instance on the back of the seat. The part may by a side part of theframe to the side of the seat. Preferably the second component isattached to the clamp by a rotatable mounting. The rotatable mountingmay be formed by a pin which passes through an aperture in the secondcomponent and which the clamp. The pin preferably engages both jaws ofthe clamp. The pin may be rotatable in one direction to open the clampby movement of the jaws. The pin may be rotatable in the other directionto close the clamp and preferably also to fix the orientation of thesecond component relative to the clamp. A splined engagement between thesecond component and the clamp and/or between the second component and ahead piece for the pin may be provided to fix the orientation of thesecond component relative to the clamp.

The clamp may include two opposing jaws. Preferably the pin adjusts theseparation of the jaws. The jaws may each be provided with a recess toaccommodate the frame to be clamped. The hinge between the jaws may be aflexible hinge.

The second component is preferably used to attach one or moreaccessories to the seat, the accessories being provided with one or morefirst components of the fastener system. The accessories may be one ormore of a canopy, a table, a parasol, a windbreak, a light, a readingstand or insect screen.

One or more of the accessories may be provided with the seat as a kitThe kit may include one or more of the clamps described in thisdocument.

Preferably the item of furniture is stackable with items of furniture ofthe same type. Preferably the accessories are stackable with accessoriesof the same type.

The sixth aspect of the invention may include any of the features,options or possibilities set out elsewhere in this document.

According to a seventh aspect of the invention we provided a method ofmanufacture, preferably for a canopy for attachment to an item offurniture, the method including:

providing a canopy, the canopy including a plurality of sleeves forreceiving arms, the sleeves being formed by one or more portions of thecanopy being folded over and joined to another part of the canopy;

inserting a first arm into a sleeve, the first arm being provided with afirst component of a fastener system and being provided with a joint;

inserting a second arm into a sleeve and connecting the second arm tothe joint, the second arm being provided with a second joint, the jointallowing the orientation of the first arm to the second arm to bevaried;

inserting a further arm into a sleeve and connecting the further arm tothe joint on the second arm.

A third arm may be provided between the second and further arm,preferably in conjunction with a third joint.

Preferably the arms are slid into their respective joints. Preferablythe arms and joints are separate components from one another.

Preferably the method provides for the manufacture of different size andshape canopies using the same joints, but different length first armsand/or second arms and/or further arms and/or cross-arms. Preferably thefirst arm or arms is short than the second and/or third and/or furtherarm or arms. Preferably the further arm or arms are shorter than thesecond and/or third arm or arms. Preferably the third arm or arms areshorter than the second arm or arms. Preferably the link between thefirst arms or first joints and/or the link between the second arms orsecond joints and/or the link between the third arms or third joints areof the same length and/or design and/or dimensions.

Preferably the joint is separate from the first arm and ideally ismounted on the end of each of the first arm by means of a slidingengagement. Preferably two first arms are provided, preferably in theirown sleeves. Preferably these arms or joints are linked by a cross-arm.Preferably the fastener for that cross-arm is then attached andtightened.

Preferably the joint on the second arm is separate from the second armand ideally is mounted on the end of the second arm by means of asliding engagement. preferably two second arms are provided, preferablyin their own sleeves. Preferably these arms or joints are linked by across-arm. Preferably the fastener for that cross-arm is then attachedand tightened.

The one or more sleeves may be formed by welding a part of the one ormore portions to the another part of the canopy.

The seventh aspect of the invention may include any of the features,options or possibilities set out elsewhere in this document.

According to An eighth aspect of the invention we provide a mounting,the mounting including one part of a fastener system, the mounting beingformed of a first part and a second part, the first and second partsreleasably engaging with one another, the first and second partsdefining a channel between the first and second parts, the channelreceiving a frame in use, the first part including a first frameengaging portion which faces the channel at a position and a secondframe engaging portion which faces the channel at a position, the secondpart including a first frame engaging portion which faces the channel ata position and a second frame engaging portion which faces the channelat a position, the axis of the channel at the position for a first frameengaging portion being different to the axis of the channel at theposition for a second frame engaging portion.

The mounting may be formed of metallic or non-metallic materials, suchas plastics. The mounting may be formed of moulded components.

The one part of the fastener system may be a female part. The femalepart preferably cooperates with a male part provided on the item to beattached to the mounting. Preferably the item is a canopy, sunshade, sunscreen, umbrella, parasol, rainshield or the like. The item may be atable.

The one part of the fastener system is preferably provided in a recessin the mounting. The recess may be defined, at least in part, by arecess portion of the first part of the mounting.

In one embodiment of the invention the recess may be defined, at leastin part, by a recess portion of the second part of the mounting.Preferably the recess is defined by two halves, one half being providedby the recess portion of the first part of the mounting, the second halfbeing provided by the recess portion of the second part of the mounting.The mouth of the recess may be surrounded by a cap. Preferably the capengages with the first part of the mounting. Preferably the cap engageswith the second part of the mounting. Preferably the cap resistsmovement of the first part and second part away from one another in use.The one part of the fastener is preferably provided in a first body partof the mounting. Preferably the first body part is form by the first andsecond parts of the mounting. Preferably the first body part is providedto one side of the channel. The first body part may include a planarsurface on each face, with curved transition surfaces linking the twofaces.

In an alternative embodiment of the invention the recess may be solelydefined by a first part of the mounting. This may particularly be thecase for mountings intended for use on nursery equipment. Preferably therecess is defined by a cup component. Preferably the cup component ismounted on the first part of the mounting, particularly a planar facethereof. The mouth of the recess is preferably flush with the planarface. The mouth of the recess may be surrounded by a cap. Preferably therecess is provided to one side of the channel. The axis of insertionand/or removal of the second part of the fastener relative to the firstpart of the fastener is preferably angled relative to the axis of thechannel at the position for a first frame engaging portion and angledrelative to the axis of the channel at the position for a second frameengaging portion.

Preferably the first body part includes one or more locations forreleasable fasteners. The fasteners may be screws, clips or the like.Preferably at least two such locations are provided on the first bodypart, with ideally at least four such locations being provided on themounting in total. Four releasable fasteners, preferably in the form ofscrews, may particularly be provided in the case of mountings fornursery equipment. The releasable fasteners may be introduced through anaperture, preferably a recessed aperture, in the first body part of themounting and/or one face of the first body part. Preferably thereleasable fasteners engage with locations on the second body part ofthe mounting and/or the inside of the face of the second body part.

The mounting may be provided with a second body portion, preferably tothe other side of the channel to the first body portion. Preferably thesecond body part is form by the first and second parts of the mounting.The second body part may include a planar surface on each face, withcurved transition surfaces linking the two faces. The second body partmay be in the form of a curved surface, particularly to the outside ofthe channel. Preferably the second body part includes one or morelocations for releasable fasteners. The fasteners may be screws, clipsor the like. Preferably at least two such locations are provided. Thereleasable fasteners may be introduced through an aperture, preferably arecessed aperture, in the second body part of the mounting and/or oneface of the second body part. Preferably the releasable fasteners engagewith locations on the first body part and/or inside of the face of thefirst body part.

The first part of the mounting may be one half of the mounting.Preferably the first part of the mounting includes at least some of thefirst body part, channel or body section defining the channel and thesecond body part.

The second part of the mounting may be one half of the mounting.Preferably the first part of the mounting includes at least some of thefirst body part, channel or body section defining the channel and thesecond body part.

The second part of the mounting may be a mirror image of the first part.Preferably curved transition surfaces form a smooth junction between thefirst part and second part.

The channel may be a continuous channel. The channel may only have anopening at each end for the frame. The channel may have one or moreopenings in its side. The channel may be formed only by the first frameengaging portions and second frame engaging portions. Preferably thechannel is defined by a body section. Preferably the body section linksthe first body part to the second body part. Transition surfaces maylink the body section to the first and/or second body part. The bodysection may have a consistent internal profile and/or cross-sectionthroughout, for instance where the channel is continuous. The bodysection may have a varying internal profile or cross-section, forinstance where the channel is discontinuous or includes a chamber.

Particularly between the positions of the first frame engaging portionsand the second frame engaging portions the channel and/or body sectionmay define an opening, particularly in the form of a chamber. Theopening may be used to accommodate a variety of differently shaped orcurve forms or curve diameters for the elements of the frame linking thelinear first element and linear second element. The opening may beenclosed by the body section and/or body parts so that the only openingsare those at the ends of the channel.

The frame may particularly be a tubular frame, normally, but notnecessarily of circular cross-section. The frame may be of metal. Themounting may be attached to a corner of the frame, particularly at ornear the top of the frame. The mounting may be attached to the frame ata location formed by a fist element, preferably linear, which is linkedto a second element, preferably linear, by a curved element. Themounting is preferably attached to the frame without modifying the frameand/or dismantling the frame in anyway.

The first engaging portion of the first part may be separate from orlinked to the second engaging portion of the first part. The firstengaging part of the first part is preferably provided with a profile tomatch the element of the frame it is to engage. The profile may be ahalf of a cylinder or less. The profile may be semicircular or less andmay curve along its length. The first engaging portion of the first partmay be provided towards or at one end of the channel.

The first engaging portion of the second part may be separate from orlinked to the second engaging portion of the second part. The firstengaging part of the second part is preferably provided with a profileto match the element of the frame it is to engage. The profile may be ahalf of a cylinder or less. The profile may be semicircular or less andmay curve along its length. The first engaging portion of the secondpart may be provided towards or at one end of the channel.

The second engaging part of the first part is preferably provided with aprofile to match the element of the frame it is to engage. The profilemay be a half of a cylinder or less. The profile may be semi-circular orless and may curve along its length. The second engaging portion of thefirst part may be provided towards or at one end of the channel,preferably the other end to the first engaging portion.

The second engaging part of the second part is preferably provided witha profile to match the element of the flame it is to engage. The profilemay be a half of a cylinder or less. The profile may be semi-circular orless and may curve along its length. The second engaging portion of thesecond part may be provided towards or at one end of the channel.Preferably the other end to the first engaging portion.

One or more of the first and second frame engaging portions may beprovided by the same portion, for instance a continuous surface whichdefines the channel.

The first and/or second engaging portions may be integral to themounting and/or the first part and/or the second part. The first and/orsecond engaging portions may be provided by components which areseparate from the mounting and/or the first part and/or the second part.In particular one or more elements of the compliant material, such as arubber pad, may be used to form at least part of the first and/or secondengaging portions. The compliant material may be provided between thefirst part and the frame in use and/or between the second part and theframe in use. The compliant material may be provided throughout thechannel. The compliant material may be provided at or adjacent one orboth of the ends of the channel. Preferably the ends of the channelprovide a seal between the frame and the mounting in use. The seal maybe assisted by or provided by the compliant material. One or moredifferent compliant materials and/or different sizes of compliantmaterial and/or thicknesses of compliant material may be providedtogether with the mounting. In this way different sizes of frame may beaccurately and effectively gripped.

The axis of the channel at the position for a first frame engagingportion and/or the axis of the channel at the position for a secondframe engaging portion may be considered relative to a projection of theaxis at that point, particularly as the axis of the channel will assumea curved path through one or more parts of the channel.

Preferably the axis of the channel at the position of both first frameengaging portions is the same. Preferably the axis of the channel at theposition of both second frame engaging portions is the same. Preferablythe axis at one or both of the first frame engaging portions is at least30° different from the axis at one or both of the second frame engagingportions. More preferably the difference is at least 45°, still morepreferably at least 60°, yet more preferably at least 75° and ideallybetween 85° and 95°. The axis for the first frame engaging portion maybe considered at the first frame engaging portion position furthest fromthe second frame engaging portion. The axis for the second frameengaging portion may be considered at the second frame engaging portionposition furthest from the first frame engaging portion.

Preferably one or both of the first frame engaging portions engage afirst linear element of the frame, in use. Preferably one or both of thesecond frame engaging portions engage a second linear element of theframe, in use. Preferably the first element and second element each havean axis. Preferably the axes are inclined relative to one another by atleast 30° different, more preferably the difference is at least 45°,still more preferably at least 60°, yet more preferably at least 75° andideally between 85° and 95°.

The eighth aspect of the invention may include any of the features,options or possibilities set out elsewhere in this document.

According to a ninth aspect of the invention we provide a mounting, themounting including one part of a fastener system, the mounting beingformed of a first part and a second part, the first and second partsrealisably engaging with one another around a frame, the frame beingreceived in a channel defined by the first and second parts of themounting, each of the first part and the second part providing withinthe channel and towards or at one end of the channel a first frameengaging portion and providing at or towards the other end of thechannel a second frame engaging portion, the first frame engagingportions opposing one another, the second frame engaging portionsopposing one another, the axis of the channel at one end being at anangle of at least 75° compared with the axis at the other end of thechannel.

The ninth aspect of the invention may include any of the features,options or possibilities set out elsewhere in this document.

According to a tenth aspect of the invention we provide a mounting, themounting including a female part of a fastener system in a recess, themounting between formed of a first part which includes a first bodypart, a channel defining section and a second body part and a secondpart which includes a first body portion, a channel defining section anda second body portion, the first and second parts being substantiallymirror images of one another, the channel defined by the first andsecond parts enclosing a part of the frame of an item in use, thechannel receiving at least part of a first linear element of the frame,a curved element of the frame and at least a part of a second linearelement of the frame.

The tenth aspect of the invention may include any of the features,options or possibilities set out elsewhere in this document.

According to an eleventh aspect of the invention we provide a method ofattaching a mounting including one part of a fastener system to a frame,the method including:

positioning a first part of the mounting to one side of the frame, theframe being received within a channel defined in part by the first partof the mounting;

positioning a second part of the mounting to the other side of theframe, the frame also being received within a channel defined in part bythe second part of the mounting;

fastening the first and second parts of the mounting together using oneor more fasteners with the frame between them in the channel and so thatfirst frame engaging portions of the first part and second part andsecond frame engaging portions of the first and second part engaging theframe;

wherein the axis of the frame at or towards one end of the channel is ata different angle to the axis of the frame at or towards the other endof the channel.

The method may further include attaching a canopy, sun screen orsunshade provided with another part of the fastener system to themounting using the part of the fastener system included in the mounting.

The method may firer include mounting one or more further mountings onthe frame at one or more other locations. The other locations may becorners of the frame, particularly top corners of the frame.

The frame may particularly be the frame of a chair, sun lounger or otheritem of furniture. The frame may particularly be a tubular cross-sectionframe, for instance of metal.

The eleventh aspect of the invention may include any of the features,options or possibilities set out elsewhere in this document.

According to an twelfth aspect of the invention we provide a mounting,the mounting including one part of a fastener system, the mountingincluding:

a first element, a second element and a further element;

the first element including a first item contacting surface and a firstitem engaging surface, at least a portion of the first item engagingsurface facing in an opposing direction to the first item contactingsurface;

the second element including a second item contacting surface and asecond item engaging surface, at least a portion of the second itemengaging surface being in opposition to the second item contactingsurface;

the further element including a further item contacting surface;

wherein the first, second and further item contacting surfaces are eachangled relative to one another.

Preferably the first item engaging surface is provided on a first itemengaging part. Preferably the second item engaging surface is providedon a second item engaging part. Preferably at least a part of the firstand/or second engaging parts face the further item contacting surface.

According to a thirteenth aspect of the invention we provide a mounting,the mounting including one part of a fastener system, the mountingincluding:

a first element, a second element and a further element, the furtherelement including a further item contacting surface;

the first element including a first item contacting surface and a firstitem engaging part, at least a part of the first item engaging partfacing the further item contacting surface;

the second element including a second item contacting surface and asecond item engaging part, at least a part of the second item engagingpart facing the further item contacting surface;

wherein the first, second and further item contacting surfaces are eachangled relative to one another.

A first item engaging surface may be provided on the first item engagingpart. A second item engaging surface may be provided on the second itemengaging part.

The twelfth and/or thirteenth aspects may provide any of the followingfeatures, options or possibilities.

Preferably the mounting is formed of plastics. The mounting may bemoulded. Preferably the mounting is provided as a single integral unit.Preferably the mounting is formed in a single mould.

The mounting may be for an item such as a chair, reclining chair,lounger, reclining lounger or other item of furniture. The mounting mayparticularly be for the back of an item, and especially the cornerthereof.

The one part of the fastener may be a female part The female partpreferably cooperates with a male part provided on the item to beattached to the mounting. Preferably the item is a canopy, sunshade, sunscreen, umbrella, parasol, rainshield or the like. The item may be atable.

The one part of the fastener system is preferably provided in a recessin the mounting. The recess may be defined by one or more wall parts.The one part of the fastener system may be provided, at least in part,on the first element. The one part of the fastener system may beprovided on the other side of the first element to the first itemcontacting surface. The one part of the fastener system may be provided,at least in part, on a third element which links the first element andsecond element.

Preferably the one or more wall parts defining the recess have across-section, relative to the direction of in which the first andsecond parts of the fastener system are joined, which lies within theperimeter of the mounting when viewed in that direction. The recess maybe defined by a first planar wall and second opposing planar wall whichare linked by semi-circular end walls. The one or more wall parts may beupstanding relative to the first and/or third element. One or morebracing components may be provided between the one or more wall partsand the first element and/or third element. Two curved bracingcomponents may be provided, preferably one above the other. One of thebracing components may join to the one or more wall parts at the uppersurface thereof relative to the first element.

The third element may be curved, at least with respect to the surfacefacing the item in use. The surface facing the item may be an itemcontacting surface. Preferably the third element item contacting surfaceis configured to match the item.

The first element may be substantially planar. The first element may becurved. The first element may be generally horizontally provided in use.Preferably the upper surface of the first element, provided with the onepart of the fastener system, and the lower part generally follow oneanother in profile.

The first element may be provided with a first item contacting surfaceon the opposite side to the side bearing the one part of the fastenersystem. The first item contacting surface may be provided between thefurther element and the first item engaging part. The first element maybe provided with a first item contacting surface which is configured tomatch the external surface of the item at its location of use.

The first item contacting portion may be smooth. Curved transitionsurfaces may be provided between the first item contacting surface andthe first item engaging part/surface and/or the further element.

The cross-section of the opening defined between the first item engagingpart/surface, first item contacting surface and further elementpreferably matches the cross- section of the item at that location,particularly a wall element of the item.

The first item engaging part may be provided by a protrusion from thefirst element. The protrusion may project at substantially 90° to thefirst contact surface. The first item engaging part may be provided witha surface, facing the further element and/or adjacent to the firstcontact surface, which forms the first item engaging surface.

The first item engaging surface may include one or more portions whichface the first contact surface. In use, such one or more portions mayengage with the edge of a part of the item and preferably at least apart of a face of the item facing away from the contact surface. Thefirst item engaging surface may include one or more portions profiled tocorrespond to the edge of the item with which they are to engage. In aparticular an arcuate surface may be provided as a portion of the firstitem engaging surface.

At least a part of the first item engaging part and/or first itemengaging surface is deformable. Preferably a first rest state isprovided and a second deformed state can be provided. Preferably thefirst item engaging part/surface is provided in the second deformedstate to enable mounting. Preferably the first item engagingpart/surface returns to, or towards, the first rest state once mounted.

The first element may be provided with a continuous first item engagingsurface. The first item engaging surface may be provided in a number ofseparate sections. The first element may be provided with a continuousfirst item contacting part. The first item contacting part may beprovided in a number of separate sections.

The second element may be substantially planar. The second element maybe curved. The second element may be generally vertically provided inuse. Preferably the outside surface of the second element and the insidesurface generally follow one another in profile.

The second element may be provided with a second item contacting surfaceon the inside. The second item contacting surface may be providedbetween the further element and the second item engaging part The secondelement may be provided with a second item contacting surface which isconfigured to match the external surface of the item at its location ofuse.

The second item contacting portion may be smooth. Curved transitionsurfaces may be provided between the second item contacting surface andthe second item engaging part/surface and/or the further element.

The cross-section of the opening defined between the second itemengaging part/surface, second item contacting surface and furtherelement preferably matches the cross-section of the item at thatlocation, particularly a wall element of the item.

The second item engaging part may be provided by a protrusion from thesecond element. The protrusion may project at substantially 90° to thesecond contact surface. The second item engaging part may be providedwith a surface, facing the further element and/or adjacent to the secondcontact surface, which forms the second item engaging surface.

The second item engaging surface may include one or more portions whichface the second contact surface. In use, such one or more portions mayengage with the edge of a part of the item and preferably at least apart of a face of the item facing away from the contact surface. Thesecond item engaging surface may include one or more portions profiledto correspond to the edge of the item with which they are to engage. Ina particular an arcuate surface may be provided as a portion of thesecond item engaging surface.

At least a part of the second item engaging part and/or second itemengaging surface is deformable. Preferably a first rest state isprovided and a second deformed state can be provided. Preferably thesecond item engaging part/surface is provided in the second deformedstate to enable mounting. Preferably the second item engagingpart/surface returns to, or towards, the first rest state once mounted.

The second element may be provided with a continuous second itemengaging surface. The second item engaging surface may be provided in anumber of separate sections. The second element may be provided with acontinuous second item contacting part. The second item contacting partmay be provided in a number of separate sections.

The first and/or second item engaging parts/surfaces may wrap around atleast a part of the item in use.

One of the first item engaging part or the second item engaging part maybe provided by a wall facing the respective element and/or itemcontacting surface thereof, the wall being provided on a protrusion fromits respective element. The wall may be formed at its end solely by aplanar inner surface, a planar outer surface and a planar end surface.Preferably one of the first or second item engaging parts is providedwith this form. Preferably the other of the first or second itemengaging parts is provided with a different form. The different form mayinclude a transition surface between the outer surface and end surfaceof the wall, particularly a sloping surface between a planar outersurface and planar end surface. The wall may taper towards its end,preferably with the tapering occurring on the outside surface of thewall.

The further element may be substantially planar. The further element mayinclude on or more curved parts. The further element may be generallyvertically provided in use. Preferably the outside surface of thefurther element and the inside surface generally follow one another inprofile.

The further element may be provided with a further item contactingsurface on the inside. The further item contacting surface may beprovided adjacent to the first element contacting surface and the secondelement contacting surface. The further element may be provided with afurther contacting surface which is configured to match the externalsurface of the item at its location of use, most preferably the back ofthe item of furniture which the user rests against. The further contactsurface preferably faces at least a part of the first item engagingpart/surface and at least a part of the second item engagingpart/surface.

The further item contacting portion may be smooth. Curved transitionsurfaces may be provided between the further item contacting surface andthe first and/or second item contacting surfaces.

The further element may link the first element and second element.Preferably the first, second and further elements define a corner shapedmounting. The corner shaped mounting may include the third element.Preferably smooth or curved transition surfaces are provided between thethird element and other elements.

The further element may be provided with one or more through apertures.Preferably the further element is provided with at least one throughaperture for each first item engaging part and/or protrusion. Preferablythe at least one aperture is provided on the part of the further elementnearest to the first item engaging part. Preferably the further elementis provided with at least one through aperture for each second itemengaging part and/or protrusion. Preferably the at least one aperture isprovided on the part of the further element nearest to the second itemengaging part.

The first and/or second and/or further elements may be angled relativeto one another of between 70° and 110°. Preferably the angle between thefurther element and the first and/or second elements is between 85° and95°. The first and second element item engaging parts or surfaces may beangled relative to one another of between 70° and 110° in one direction.The first and second element item engaging parts or surfaces may begenerally parallel to one another in a second direction.

In an alternative embodiment of the invention at least a part of thefirst and/or second item engaging part/surface may be provided on aseparate component to the rest of the mounting. Preferably the separatecomponent is formed by moulding. Preferably the separate component is ofplastics. The separate component may be in the form of a plate. Theseparate component may be provided with one or more through aperturesfor fasteners. Preferably the separate component is attached to themounting by one of more, preferably releasable, fasteners in use. Thefasteners may be screws. The fasteners may engage the separate componentand the mounting without passing through the item. The fasteners mayengage with the first element and/or second element. Preferably at leasta part of the separate component is provided facing its element, andmore particularly its contact surface. Preferably the separate componentclamps the item between itself and the contact surface or surfaces.

According to a forteenth aspect of the we provide a method of attachinga mounting to including one part of a fastener to an item, preferably offurniture, the method including:-

-   -   providing a mounting, the mounting including:        -   a first element, a second element and a further element;

the first element including a first item contacting surface and a firstitem engaging surface, at least a portion of the first item engagingsurface facing in an opposing direction to the first item contactingsurface;

-   -   -   the second element including a second item contacting            surface and a second item engaging surface, at least a            portion of the second item engaging surface being in            opposition to the second item contacting surface;        -   the further element including a further item contacting            surface;        -   wherein the first, second and further item contacting            surfaces are each angled relative to one another;

    -   causing at least a part of the first and second item engaging        part and/or first and second item engaging surface to be        deformed from a first rest state to a second deformed state;

    -   providing the mounting in the mounted position, the first and        second item engaging part/surface returning to the first rest        state.

The transition from first rest state to deformed state may occur at thesame time for both the first and second item engaging surfaces/parts ormay occur separately. The deformation may be caused by pushing themounting on to the item.

The method may further include attaching a canopy, sun screen, sunshade,provided with the other part of the fastener system, to the mountingusing the part of the fastener system included in the mounting.

The method may further include mounting one or more further mountings onthe item at one or more other locations. The locations may be thecorners of the item, particularly the top corners.

The item may be a chair, sun lounger or other item of furniture. Theitem may be a moulded plastics item.

Preferably only one of the first or second item engaging parts isdeformed. Preferably the other of the first or second item engagingparts is mounting on the frame by means of a sliding motion. Preferablythe other engaging part is so engaged before the part mounted by meansof the deformation is engaged. Preferably the sliding motion forms theengagement for the second item engaging part. Preferably the deformationprovides the engagement for the first item engaging part Preferably thesliding motion introduces a part of the frame into position between theitem engaging part and the item contacting surface.

The mounting may be removeable from the frame 3. Preferably the mountingis removed after the item attached to the mounting has been removed.Preferably the mounting is removed by sliding the mounting around theframe, particularly around the edge thereof The movement may seek tomove one of the first or second item engaging parts towards the positionoccupied by the other. The movement may include a rotation of themounting.

The fourteenth aspect of the invention may include any of the features,options or possibilities set out elsewhere in this document.

Various embodiments of the present invention will now be described, byway of example only, with reference to the following drawings in which:

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a lounger and two lounger accessoriesin accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 a shows an embodiment of a canopy according to the presentinvention in a folded position;

FIG. 2 b shows an embodiment of a view of a canopy according to thepresent invention in a position of use;

FIG. 3 shows a side view of part of the back of a lounger and the partof an attached canopy according to an embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of the part of the canopy shown in FIG.3;

FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of a canopy according to an embodimentof the present invention with the fabric removed;

FIG. 6 illustrates an exploded view of two joints of a canopy accordingto an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7 is a perspective, partially exploded view of a canopy accordingto another embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view along axis AA-AA of FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of a lounger and a lounger accessory inaccordance with a further embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 10 shows a side view of a first and second component of thefastener system in accordance with an embodiment of the presentinvention, the second component is shown attached by means of a clamp tothe tubular top frame of a lounger;

FIG. 11 shows a front view of a first and second component of thefastener system in accordance with an embodiment of the presentinvention, the second component is shown attached by means of a clamp tothe tubular side frame of a lounger.

FIG. 12 shows an embodiment of a technique for providing the secondcomponent of the fastener recessed in an item of furniture, particularlywooden furniture;

FIG. 13 shows an embodiment of a technique for providing a secondcomponent of a fastener an item of furniture, particularly of tubularmetal construction;

FIG. 14 shows the folded form of a canopy according to the presentinvention;

FIG. 15 is a perspective cross-sectional view of an arm according to oneform of the invention;

FIG. 16 illustrates a particularly preferred form of the invention inexploded form;

FIG. 17 illustrates the form of FIG. 16 in assembled form;

FIG. 18 shows the shade which can be provided by the FIG. 16 and FIG. 17form in use;

FIG. 19 shows a further folded form of a canopy according to theinvention;

FIG. 20 shows a perspective view of one part of a joint;

FIG. 21 shows a view of one part of a first joint;

FIG. 22 shows a modular first arm concept;

FIG. 23 is a front view of a mounting according to one embodiment of thepresent invention in use on a frame;

FIG. 24 is a rear view of the mounting of FIG. 23;

FIG. 25 is a front view of a mounting according to a further embodimentof the invention;

FIG. 26 is an internal view of one half of the mounting of FIG. 25;

FIG. 27 illustrates a further embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 28 is a top perspective view of a mounting according to the furtherembodiment of FIG. 27, in dis assembled state;

FIG. 29 is a bottom perspective view of the further embodiment asillustrated in FIG. 27 also in dis assembled state;

FIG. 30 is a rear perspective view of a part of a furniture frame and amounting according to the present invention in a detached state;

FIG. 31 illustrates the furniture frame and mounting of FIG. 1 in anattached state;

FIG. 32 is a front view of a chair back incorporating two mountingsaccording to the present invention in attached state;

FIG. 33 is a rear view of the chair back of FIG. 3 also showing twomountings according to the present invention in attached state;

FIG. 34 is an illustration of an alternative embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 35 is an illustration in cross-section of one catch portionembodiment suitable for use in the present invention;

FIG. 36 is an illustration in cross-section of another catch portionembodiment suitable for use in the present invention;

FIG. 37 is an illustration in cross-section of an alternative form ofmounting according to the invention; and

FIG. 38 shows the sequence of steps involved in providing a mounting ona frame and in then attaching an item to the mounting.

A wide variety of furniture designs exist, including a large number ofrecreational furniture forms. The applicant has sought to increase theversatility of these through the development of accessories for thatfurniture. In doing so the applicant has sought to produce a fasteningsystem for the accessories which is convenient to apply to thefurniture. The system can be applied retrospectively to existingexamples of designs as well as integrated into new designs. Importantly,the system and accessories are designed to be able to attach to a widevariety of furniture designs of independent manufacturer from themanufacturer of the accessories. This is important in ensuring theaccessories can be attached to a variety of furniture designs withoutextensive cooperation and standardisation of the fastening system andfurniture designs. At the same time the applicant has sought to providethe attachment of the accessories in a way which allows them to beeasily attached and detached as necessary from the furniture. This isparticularly important in the case of hotels, cruise liners and the likewhere very large numbers of pieces of furniture need to be put out andthen stored away each day. The attachment of accessories is only viablein such cases where the attachment and detachment process is very easy.

Over and above the attachment technique itself the applicant has soughtto provide a new range of accessories for furniture which areparticularly well adapted to purpose due to their design. Theaccessories include a canopy offering substantial adjustability in termsof positioning, with effective sun shielding properties, but offeringventilation and minimising potentially disruptive effects due to windresistance. The accessories also include a table design which can beused in a variety of positions and even be used as the tray on which tobring items being served to the furniture and its user.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1 two lounger accessories, a table2 and a canopy 4, are shown in proximity to the lounger 6 on which theywill be used in practice.

The table 2 has a generally horizontal support surface 10 fixed to apair of downwardly depending support arms 12 which are attached to thesupport surface 10 more towards one side 14 than towards the other. Eachof the support arms 12 is provided with a first component 16 of afastener system at the other end. A part of each of the first components16 of the fastener system is received within a respective secondcomponent located in the upper surface of the arm rest 20 to provide theattachment for the table 2. The second component is fully recessed andprovided with a flush finish to the arm rest 20 so as to be asattractive as possible.

By providing the support arms 12 towards the one side 14 of the table 2and by using a fastener system which is fully reversible the table 2 isitself made fully reversible. Thus the table 2 may be mounted so that itextends away to the side of the lounger 6 or, as shown, may extend overthe seat 22 of the lounger 6 and thus over the lap of the occupant ofthe lounger 6. The ability to be able to operate the first component 16with either hand and the fact that the first component 16 is not handedin its operation renders the system highly flexible. More detail of thepossible nature of the engagement between the first and secondcomponents of the fastener system follows later in this document.

The table 2 can be attached to the lounger 6 when the lounger is firstset up for the day. The orientation of the table 2 can then be changedby the user as their needs change during the day. Alternatively when theuser wants a drink or other item requiring the table 2 to be presentthat item can be brought to the lounger 6 on a table 2 which is thenattached and left for the user. The finished item may be removed aloneor together with the table 2. Different table designs may be used tobring different items to the lounger 6. For instance whilst a drink maybe brought on a small table of the type shown in FIG. 1, a meal may bebrought on a table (not shown) which spans from one arm rest to theother and is attached to the lounger 6 through arms 12 on both sideswhich engage with the arm rests 20. Full support in the desired positionfor a weighty item is thus provided.

With regard to the other accessory illustrated in FIG. I this is in theform of a canopy 4 intended to provide shade from the sun. The canopy 4is provided at one end with a pair of arms 32 each having an end whichterminates with a first component 34 of the fastener system. A part ofthe first component 34 of the fastener system is received in each casewithin a second component 36 of the fastener system to provide theattachment.

In this embodiment, particularly intended for new products, the secondcomponent 36 is recessed into the frame 38 which defines the top edge 40of the lounger 6. The arms 32 depend away from the first component 34 ina manner generally aligned with the axis of insertion and removal of thefirst component 34 relative to the second component 36 in the simplestform of the invention. As a result the plane 42 defined between the twoarms 32 is generally co-planar with the back 44 of the lounger 6. Theother ends of the arms 32 are provided with an adjustable joint, such asa ratchet joint 46, described in more detail below.

Extending from the joints 46 in each case are second arms 48 which againend in a second adjustable joint, such as ratchet joint 50. Extendingfrom the ratchet joint 50 is a further pair of arms 52 linked by an endarm 54. The second arms 48 provide support for canopy material 56 andthe further arms 52 and link arm 54 provide support for the canopymaterial 58.

The canopy material 56 and canopy material 58 may be a single piece ofmaterial. A further piece of canopy material may be provided betweenarms 32 and this may be integral with the piece of canopy material 56and even piece 58. Alternatively as shown the gap between the arms 32may be left open to provide ventilation through airflow. A compromisebetween sun shielding and ventilation may be provided by using a numberof separate, loose flaps of material between the arms 32. The canopymaterial may cover the an-s, for instance by looping the material underthe arms and attaching it to the canopy material on the other side ofthe arms.

In an alternative form, not shown, the second joints 50 may be joined bya single support arm in the form of an arc extending out towards the endof the canopy before returning to the joint 50 on the other side of thecanopy 30.

The canopy 4 thus provided is in three principal parts A, B and C, asshown in FIGS. 2 a and 2b. In storage or transportable form, the canopy4 may be folded such that the part A folds against part B and part B isthen folded towards part C, with part A being between both part B andpart C. When folded in this way a storage and transportation form forthe canopy which minimises the space occupied is achieved. Importantlythis manner of folding is possible whilst allowing the use of a safetyfeature. Referring to FIG. 2 a it is possible to rotate part A relativeto part B about the first joint which links them by around 270°anticlockwise, however, beyond that point the joint includes a stopwhich prevents further rotation. This prevents a canopy swinging down onto the user if they carelessly loosen the first joint. It is alsopossible to rotate part C relative to part B about the second jointwhich links them by around 270° clockwise. Again further rotation beyondthat point is prevented by a stop in the second joint Again thisprevents the end of the canopy swinging down and potentially hitting theuser if the second joint is loosened too much.

In use the first part A is generally fixed in position relative to thelounger 6, see FIG. 2 b. The other two parts, B and C are adjustable inangle relative to the lounger 6 and relative to each other. In generalpart B will be used angled up to give height clearance for the canopy,whilst part C will be significantly angled down to provide shading forthe upper body of the user. The length of the parts/arms may be variableby telescopic action, particularly in the case of part A. The stops inthe joint prevent part B going much further in a clockwise direction asseen in the Figure and also prevent part C going down too far andswinging into the user.

In a preferred form the canopy folds in a similar manner to that shownin FIGS. 2 a and 2 b. Thus referring to FIG. 14 the fastener bearing armA folds onto the top of, and more preferably between part B. The part Cfolds onto the top of that structure and more preferably also folds downbetween. The result is a structure which folds very fiat and occupieslittle space during storage and transport before and after purchase.Face 80 is the underside of part B in use, face 82 is the underside ofpart C in use and face 84 is the back face of part A in use.

The spacing of the two parts A of the structure is less than the spacingof the two parts B. As a consequence parts A fold down inside theprofile of part B to give a lower profile folded structure. The junctionbetween part B and joint 86 is offset so that part C can be folded backdirectly onto part B in practice as the separation of the two parts C isthe same as the separation of the two parts B. In FIG. 14 the foldingstructure is shown open slightly so as to illustrate the position ofpart A.

Most importantly the material mounted on parts A, B and C and extendingbetween the two parts A, two parts B and two parts C in each case todefine the canopy are joined together to form a single canopy cover. Thecanopy cover is mounted on the arms by wrapping a piece of the canopyaround the arm and stitching and/or welding the canopy edge back to thecanopy so as to form a sleeve which encloses the arm. The link betweenthe canopy covers provided in this way for arms A, arms B and arms C areprovided in the form of a strip of fabric which bridges the gap betweenthe canopy cover parts. Importantly this bridge is provided on theinside of the joint so that this piece of material 88 is relaxed andfolds when the canopy is converted from the in use position to thestorage/transportation position. If the fabric were provided around theoutside of the joint this fabric junction would be stretched during thefolding procedure and disrupt the canopy cover configuration.

A similar flat folding structure can be provided for a four componentstructure, as shown in FIG. 19. Here the second arm 90 is the longestand ends in first joint 92 and second joint 94. The first joint 92 isconnected to the first arm 96, shown by the cross markings, which isfolded inside the profile occupied by the second arms 90. The secondjoint 94 is connected to the third arm 98 and this arm 98 is shorterthan arm 100 so that the third joint 100 lies inside the end 102 of thesecond arm 90 profile. The further arm 104, shown by dotted markings, isfolded inside the profile occupied by the third arm 98. Overall a veryflat low profile structure is obtained.

To provide a canopy which is effective in providing shade againstsunshine, but which is not prone to catching by the wind it is possibleto use one of a variety of fabric designs. Included in these are designswith single threads running in a first direction, alternate passing overand under a pair of threads running in a perpendicular direction.Spacings between the threads in both directions are provided so as toprovide through apertures in the fabric which enable the wind to passthrough yet give 92% effective shade. A fabric which gives 75% screeningagainst UV can be achieved whilst still permitting 85% of the wind topass through In conjunction with even a mild sunscreen cream the presentinvention can allow a person to stay outside for substantially longerperiods. The invention is also effective in keeping a person cool duringthis period. The shade from the third part can conveniently be increasedby folding the fourth/end part back over it.

The canopy may deploy metal arms or may feature all plastic or aluminiumarms in which the arms and the joints and fastener are all providedentirely of plastic, a combination of materials is of course possible.In a preferred form the arms are formed of plastic extrusions ofgenerally square cross-section, but with rounded corners. Thisconstruction is preferred for the second and further arms. The firstarms are preferably of the form illustrated in FIG. 15. Thecross-section of FIG. 15 clearly shows the I-beam section 122 from whichthe arm 120 is formed. The I-beam section 122 is supplemented by aseries of cross-members 124 which extend diagonally across the groove126 defined on either side of the I-beam section 122. The cross-membersthus define a series of diamond shaped recesses 128 and triangularrecesses 130. The I-beam section and cross-members are preferablyintegral with one another, for instance due to production in the samemoulded process.

It is, of course, possible to include a fourth panel on the canopy byinserting a further pair of arms and joints into the overallconfiguration.

Whilst most recreational furniture, including loungers, have asubstantial frame to them which could accommodate the second componentof the fastening system recessed within it, the shape and configurationof the frame varies quite considerably from one design to the next, andparticularly from one manufacturer to the next It is desirable for theaccessories produced according to the present invention to fit a widevariety of furniture designs and furniture manufacturers withoutrequiring a specific accessory product in each case and/or therequirement for consistent position and orientation of the secondcomponent in each type of furniture.

To address this issue the capability to accommodate significantvariation in the position and orientation of the second component isbuilt into the invention. Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4 the function ofthis aspect of the invention is described.

FIG. 3 provides a view of a part of the frame 200 of the lounger. Theframe 200 includes a substantially vertical side 202, inclined side 204and curved top surface 206 which joins the side 204 on one side of theframe 200 to a corresponding surface on the other side of the frame 200.The second component 208 fully recessed within the top surface 206 ofthe frame 200 of the lounger, with the opening of the second componentin the top surface 206 also. This cooperates, as shown, with a firstcomponent 210.

As can be seen in FIG. 4, with the frame 200 and second component 208omitted, the first component 210 involves a body portion 212 whichenters the second component 208 in use, a pair of dependent arms 214 anda pair of gripper portions 216 at the tops of the arms 214. Thecontinuation part 218 of the body portion 212 connects the firstcomponent 210 to disc element 220. The disk element 220 has a centralaperture and is received in a channel 224 in the mount 226 for the arm228. The channel 224 is defined by a first side part 230 and by a secondside part 232, those side parts being joined by the mount 226. Bothparts 230 and 232 also have central apertures which correspond inposition and size with aperture 222 in disk 220. A pin received in thisaperture allows for the rotation of the disk 220, continuation part 218and first component 210 relative to the mount 226, arm 228 and the restof the canopy. Thus whilst the arms 228 of the canopy are maintainedsubstantially vertically aligned, the first component 210 can be angledso as to be aligned with second component 208 in an alignment set by therequirement to have a flush finish for the second component 208 with thecurved top surface 206.

The arm 228 is of tubular design and is capable of receiving in its end236 another, reduced diameter arm which can slide up and down within arm228. Releasable fixings provided on each of the arms (not shown) allowthe arm 228 and second arm to be moved in a telescopic manner to adesired position. Thus, the height of the canopy relative to the item offurniture can be adjusted. A lower height may be required for a loungerthan that required for a chair, or vice versa.

FIG. 5 illustrates the overall support structure for a canopy of thetype provided according to the present invention. Thus this includes apair of first components 500 attached to one end of arms 502 usingmounting 504. The arms 502 are generally vertical. These terminate injoints 506 which lead on to second arms 508, further joints 510 andfurther arm portions 512 joined to link arm 514 by curves 516. Each ofthe joints 506 is joined by a cross arm 518, and in the case of jointsS10 by cross arm 520. In use of course the canopy is covered by suitablefabric panels.

FIG. 6 provides an exploded perspective view of the first component ofthe fastening system, its interrelationship with first arm 550, joint552 and arm 554.

The first component 556 is of a similar design to that set out in FIGS.3 and 4 above. However, the mounting 558 receives the arm 550 and whichjoins the two parts 560 and 562 together to define the channel 564 isslightly different. In this case the mount is provided directly betweenthe two parts 560, 562, and also provides there the mount for the arm550. Again, the position of the arm 550 relative to the first componentcan be adjusted through a variety of angles by releasing and thentightening nut 564.

The joint 552 features an adjustable knob 300 which is used to releaseor tighten the joint so as to allow movement and then fix the movementof the arms 550 and 554 relative to one another. The knob 300 cooperateswith the head 302 of a shaft 304 (only partially shown) which passesthrough aperture 306 in the arm 554, and corresponding apertures in eachof the block 308, first splined element 310, second splined element 312,second block 314, hole 316 in the top of arm 550, cap 318 and on acrossto the other mounting (not shown) through aperture 320 in the cap 318.The full length of the shaft 304 is not shown. In assembly the arm 554is received within a corresponding shaped channel 322 in block 308.Protrusions 324 on the first splined part 310 provide cooperationbetween that first splined part 310 and the block 308. Similarprotrusions and cooperation between the second splined part 312 andsecond block 314 are provided. A spring, not shown, is provided to urgethe splined part 310 and 312 apart unless resisted by the tightened knob300. The spring assists in freeing up the splined parts 310 and 312 forrelative movement when a user wants to adjust the position. Tighteningup the knob 300 forces the splined parts 310 and 312 together again toprovide a fixed system. The second block 314 also has a channel 326which accommodates the arm 550 in the assembled state. The splines onthe first and second splined components 310, 312, allow the two arms tobe rotated relative to one another when the tension is released, but fixthe position when the knob 300 is tightened.

In a further embodiment of the invention, illustrated in FIG. 7, showsthe canopy frame 550 which underlies the fabric, not shown, in use. Theframe 550 includes a first pair of components 552 attached to one end ofarms 554 using a mounting 556. The arms 554 are generally vertical inuse. These terminate in joints 558 which lead to second arms 560,further joints 562 and further arm portions 564. The ends of the furtherarm portions 566 are joined by curve 566. One of the further joints 562is described in more detail below with reference to FIG. 8. Each of thefurther joints 562 are linked by a cross arm 570 and each of the joints558 are linked by cross arm 572. The cross arms 570 and 572 are both ofhollow square cross-section metal. The hollow 574 receives the shaft 576of the joint tightening system. Each of the ends of the cross arms 570and 572 are received in square profiled recesses 578 in the joints 564and 560 respectively.

The joints 558 and 562 each feature a pair of square cross-sectionedhollows 580 which receive the ends of the square cross-sectionedelements which form the arms 554, second arms 560 and further arms 564in a sliding engagement Referring to FIG. 8, the further joint 562 onthe right hand side of FIG. 7 is shown in assembled cross-section. Thecross arm 570 contains the shaft 576 of the tightening system. At itsend, the shaft 576 is provided with a nut 577 and an engagement with aspring 582. The nut 577 is also attached to knob 584 by cooperation witha recess in the knob 584. The knob 584 is free to rotate relative toblock 585 which has a splined surface 586 which engages with a splinedsurface 588 on block 590. Loosening off the knob 584 allows the block585 to release its engagement with the other block 590. This allowsrotation of one block relative to the other and hence of the furtherarms 564 relative to arms 560. The spring 582 encourages the splinedsurfaces 586, 588 back into contact with one another. Tightening theknob 584 fixes the position. The operation of the knob 584 releases andfixes the splined surfaces in both joints 562.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 9, the lounger 700 is of agenerally similar construction to that discussed above in relation toFIG. 1. The canopy 750 includes a pair of arms 732 each having a firstend which terminates with a first component 754 of a fastener system. Apart of each of the first components 754 of the fastener system isreceived within a second component which is clamped (clamping means notshown) to a rear portion 758 of the frame 760 of the lounger 700.Details of the clamping are provided below. The remaining structure ofthe canopy 750 corresponds to that described above for the FIG. 1embodiment, save for the fact that the canopy material is provided as aseries of loose, overlapping strips 762.

FIGS. 10 and 11 illustrate embodiments of the present invention, such asthat for the canopy in FIG. 7, in which the second components of thefastener system are mounted on the lounger by means of clamps 600. Sucha system is particularly useful in relation to tubular furniture. Theclamps 600 have a pair of arms 602 a, 602 b connected by a hinge 604.Each arm 602 a, 602 b has a cup-shaped portion 604 a, 604 b inopposition to one another and which can be fastened around a part of theframe 606 of the lounger. In use, a screw threaded component 608 withhead 609 adjusts the separation of the arms 602 a, 602 b of the clamp600 and is slotted through a mounting hole 610 in a mounting portion612. The mounting portion 612 is connected to the receiving portion 614of the second component 616. Tightening the component 608 causes theclamp 600 to securely engage the frame 606. Once fastened to the frame606 this form of attachment is not used in releasing or reattaching theaccessories to the lounger. Instead the fully reversible, quick release,single handed operable fastener system formed by the first and secondcomponents themselves is used. In the case of FIG. 8 the clamp 600 isused to attach the device to a generally horizontal tubular frame 606,for instance at the top of the back of the lounger. In the case of FIG.11 the clamp 600 is used to clamp to a generally vertical tubular frame606, for instance as provided at the side of the back of the lounger.

Also referring to FIG. 10 and FIG. 11 the fastener system based on thefirst component and second component is described. In the case of thefirst component 800 it generally comprises a body part 802 having aleading edge 804. A pair of deformable arms 806 with grip parts 807depend from the lead edge 804 of the body portion 802 back towards thetrailing edge 808 of the body portion 802. In use, the lead edge 804 ofthe first component 800 is inserted into the receiving portion 614 ofthe second component 616. The inside of the receiving portion 614 isconfigured to cause the arms 806 to be deformed towards the body portion802 as the lead edge 804 of the first component is pushed into thereceiving portion 814. Once the lugs 814 on the arms 806 reach aposition corresponding with the position of the apertures 816 in thewall of the receiving portion 814 of the second component 616 theresilient nature of the arms forces them out once more and causes thelugs 814 and apertures 816 to engage and so retain the first and secondcomponents together.

The internal surfaces of the receiving portion 616 are configured toabut the surfaces of the body part 802 over a substantial area so as toprovide a firm, supported engagement.

With particular application to wooden furniture, the second component ofthe fastener may be provided recessed into a member 850, FIG. 12. Theblock 850 may be a structural part of the top of the flame of the itemof furniture. In some cases it may be necessary to increase the width Xof this piece compared with the member used in the design of furnitureprior to adapting to accommodate the canopy concept. In other cases,such a modification is not necessary. Either way the mounting locationfor the second component 852 is provided in the member 850 without anydetracting effect on appearance. A clip in cover 854 is ideally providedto cover the top of the recess into which the plastic second componentis inserted.

If the second component needs to be retrofitted to a design then it ispossible to provide it in a block, in a similar configuration to that ofFIG. 12, with the block then being attached to the existing item offurniture, for instance on an equivalent to face 856 of FIG. 12.

In the context of tubular furniture frames, FIG. 13, it is possible toincorporate the second component 870 on top of; or even to the side of,a mounting piece 872. The mounting piece 872 has a through aperture 874of cross-section which conforms to the tubular frame 876. In the case ofa circular cross-section tube, one or more apertures 878 or notches orgrooves in the tube are provided to cooperate with matching protrusionson the inside of the through aperture 874. The mounting piece 872 isslid along the tube until the projection and aperture snap intoengagement. Undesired rotation of the mount and canopy relative to thefurniture is then resisted in an aesthetically pleasing way.

In a preferred assembly technique, the canopy is provided in the desiredshape with a series of sleeves which receive the arms. The sleeves arein the desired position and are formed by folding a portion of thecanopy over and welding the end of that portion to the main part of thecanopy. The first arms bearing the first component of the fastener arethen slid into their sleeves. The joint is then mounted on the end ofeach of the first arms, by means of a sliding engagement, before thecross-arm is attached. The fastener for that cross-arm is then attachedand tightened. The second arms are then slid into the joints and theirrespective sleeves, before the further joints are slid onto the otherends of the second arms. The cross-arm is then introduced and itsfastener introduced and tightened. Finally the further arm is introducedinto its sleeve and slid into the ends of the joints to complete thecanopy assembly. The provision of the arms, cross-arms and joints asseparate components allows the size and shape of canopy to be made to bechanged without the need for expensive redesign or changes to the jointmanufacturing process. Changing the arm length and canopy shape is allthat is needed.

A particularly preferred form of the invention is provided in FIG. 16.This four section canopy uses first arms 900 which are the shortest,second arms 902 which are the longest and third arms 904 which areshorter than the second arms and longer than the first arms. It may alsouse first 906, second 908 and third 910 link arms which are ofequivalent length to each other and of the same length as the secondfurther arm/end arm 912. This reduces the number of different componentsthat must be made and reduces the skill level needed for assembly. Thedesign is shown in conjunction with mountings 914 particularly suited touse of plastic chairs. The assembled form is shown in FIG. 17.

A key feature in allowing the wind to pass through the fabric and/or notcause problems in other ways is to provide the canopy material betweenthe arms in a tight manner. To achieve this successfully a particularassembly sequence is useful. Referring to FIG. 16, the assembly startswith the canopy material in the correct form with sleeves to receiveboth the arms and the links. Link 912 is inserted into its sleeve first.The corner pieces 914 are then attached. Arms 916 are then inserted.Then either link 910 is inserted followed by the first half of thejoints 918 or vice versa. The arms 904 are then inserted into theirsleeve and then into the end of the other half of joint 918. The end ofthe arm away from the joint is splayed apart slightly to cause the twohalves of the joint 918 to engage. The half of the joint 920 is thenprovided on the arms 904 and then link 908 inserted or vice versa. Arms902 are then inserted and the joint 920 is completed. Finally the linkarm 906 is pushed into the sleeve and slotted in to one end 922 of thejoint 924. At the other end 926, the joint 924 is provided with apartial cutt away in its rim so as to allow the link arm 906 to bepushed into that joint also. The partial cut away also providesassistance in guiding the link arm into position correctly. The wholeassembly is acheived without any significant slack in the fabric.

The extent of screening achieved using this type of design is shown inFIG. 18 in relation to different sun angles (the numbers across thebottom). As can be seen significant and effective sun screening isachieved.

Referring to FIG. 20, one half 940 of a joint is shown in perspective.Such a joint is particularly suited for use between the second and thirdarms. The arm, not shown, is inserted into the body portion 942. Thebody portion 942 is connected to a disc portion 944 which carries aseries of radially extending ridges 946. A surface carrying such ridgesis also provided on the other half of the joint, not shown. The ridges946 engage with one another to resist movement until sufficient force isapplied to overcome the resistance level. The centre of the joint isprovided with a raised portion in the form of a boss 948. The axis ofrotation passes through the centre. The central aperture 950 is ofhexagonal cross-section. In this way a hexagonal cross-section link armis locked in position relative to the joint once inserted. The boss 948cooperates with a recessed portion around the axis of rotation of theother half.

One or more of the joints, particularly the first joint, may be providedwith free rotation between the limit of rotation in one direction andthe limit of rotation in the other direction. As shown in FIG. 21, thelimit of rotation may be defined by the point 960 at which a protrusionon the half of the joint not shown abuts a stop 962 in the half 964shown. The stop 962 is reinforced by a metal pin 966 provided in theplastic material. A channel 968 in this half provides a pathway throughwhich the protrusion can move during rotation. To assist in stabilisingthe joint a further projection is provided on the same half as thefirst. This cooperates at the limit of rotation with a different stop970. The stop 970 is provided at one end of an external channel 972. Thechannel 972 is open sided and is separated form the channel 968 byraised part 974. By placing the two stops 180 degrees apart increasedstability to the joint is provided. The channel 968 is bridged by aseries of webs 976 at a depth which does not interfere with the passageof the protrusion.

To provide increased flexibility in terms of the arm length,particularly in relation to the first arm, a modular arm constructioncan be used, as illustrated in FIG. 22. The plastic arm 980 is providedwith a smaller cross-section pin 982 at one end and with an aperture toreceive such a pin at the other end 984. Thus a further arm part 986 canbe mounted on the first 980 to provide increased length. A first jointis mounted on one end of the first arm and the one part of the fasteneris mounted on the other end using the same mounting pin 982 or aperture.This means the expense of producing different length arms issignificantly reduced.

The design of the canopy also takes into account wind action. Theinclination of the further section, and when present third section, isdesign such that the wind pushes the canopy down towards the user. Thisforce therefore acts against the rotational stops provided and does notcause the position of the sections to vary, or in an extreme case foldup. Furthermore, this action in conjunction with the mounting design iseffective in dissipating the force to the furniture. Throughout aneffective canopy and mounting is acheived.

In its various forms it should be noted that the invention achieves anattractive, effective canopy and mount for other items, which does notrequire bracing pieces between the arms to maintain their position orgive them strength. Additionally the canopy folds flat in a space savingmanner for ease of transport and storage.

Whilst the present invention has been illustrated in relation toloungers and accessories therefore it should be appreciated that theinvention is equally applicable to other items of furniture includingtables, chairs and others. The accessories can also be different fromthose illustrated in the embodiments, including parasols, windbreaks,reading lights, reading stands, or any ancillary product.

A significant number of different furniture designs exist. When seekingto fit a releasable canopy, sunshade or the like to such furnitureproblems are faced in obtaining a sufficiently secure fitting to resistthe turning moment of the canopy attached. This problem is particularlyacute with tubular framed furniture where the circular cross-section ofthe tube does not resist such turning. Mountings which use fixings thatpass through the frame are potentially complicated to produce orinstall, particularly after assembly. Holes through the frame and thelike are unattractive when not in use and are difficult for users toprovide after purchase when seeking to retrofit. Similar problems andissues are faced when seeking to provide mountings on tubular frames inother situations. This is particularly true in the case of nurseryequipment, such as push chairs, buggies, prams and the like.

To address these and other issues, the present invention has beendeveloped. The invention is described below primarily in relation tofurniture frames, but is more widely applicable than that.

Referring to the embodiment of FIG. 23, the mounting 1001 is designed tobe securely attached to the frame 1003 of the item of furniture, such asa chair back. The mounting 1001 is attached to one corner 1005 of theframe 1003. The frame 1003 has a corner 1005 defined by a first tubularelement 1007, second tubular element 1009 and connecting tubular curvedelement 1011 which form the continuous frame. The second element 1009 isgenerally linear and is generally horizontal. The first element 1007 isalso generally linear and depends downward relative to the position ofthe second element 1009. The first element 1007 can be generallyvertically provided, provided on an incline or provided at a variety ofangles as the furniture is adjusted, depending on the particular designof furniture.

The mounting 1 is formed of a first part and a second part, which in theillustrated form are halves, the front half 1013 being the more visiblein FIG. 23, the rear half 1015 being the more visible in FIG. 24.

The front half 1013 includes a first body part 1017 to one side of thechannel 1019 which receives the frame 1003 and a second body part 1021to the other side of the channel 1019. The channel is defined by a bodysection 1023 which curves out and away from first body part 1017, aroundthe frame 1003 before curving back to join second body part 1021. Thebody section 1023 is also curved in a further direction to shape thechannel 1019 to the form of the parts of the frame 1003 it receives,namely the curved element 1011, and an initial part of each of the firstelement 1007 and second element 1009.

The first body part 1017 and second body part 1021 have generally planarfaces and curved edges 1029 which bring the edge of the body parts 1017,1019 round to match the edges 1031 of the corresponding body parts ofthe rear half 1015. The junction between the first body part 1017 andbody section 1023 and between the second body part 1021 and body section1023 are provided with curves 1033 to provide a smooth transition.

The first body part 1017 importantly accommodates the first part of thefastener system within it. The first part in the illustrated form is afemale part provided in a recess 1035 which includes within it guidechannels for ensuring accurate introduction of the male part 1036 of thefastener system and retaining means for maintaining the male and femaleparts in firm engagement with one another when desired. The male andfemale parts are releasable. For more details of a suitable fastenersystem reference is made to WO98/17922 of the applicant.

Referring to FIG. 24 in particular, the manner of introduction of themounting to an existing tubular cross-section frame is described. Thetubular cross-section frame may be existing in the context of being aproduced item of furniture ready to leave the factory or may be anexisting tubular cross-section frame in the context of being an item offurniture previously bought, some time ago, by a consumer and to whichthe consumer now desires to attach a mounting.

Firstly, if provided joined together, the front half 1013 and rear half1015 are separated by releasing the screws 1037. Each screw 1037 passesthrough an aperture in the rear half 1015 and into a blind bore on theinside of the front half 1013 in the connected state.

The front half 1013 can then be introduced to the front of the frame1003 so that the first element 1007, curved element 1011 and secondelement 1009 sit in the channel 1019. The rear half 1015 can then bebrought into position from the other side and matched up to the fronthalf 1013. Introduction and tightening of the screws 1037 then bringsthe two halves into firm contact with one another. The dimensions of thechannel 1019 formed by the body section 1023 of the front half 1013 andbody section 1023 of the rear half 1015 are such that a firm grip on theframe 1003 is achieved. In the illustrated form the frame 1003 isgripped throughout the length of the channel 1019.

As an alternative, the mounting may provide first engaging portions, onthe front half 1013 and rear half 1015 respectively, which engage theframe 1003 and second engaging portions on the front half 1013 and rearhalf 1015 respectively, which engage the frame 1003. The first andsecond engaging portions on a half may be spaced from one another by aportion which does not engage the frame. The spacing of the firstengaging portions and second engaging portions on the frame should besufficient that the axis of the channel 1019 or frame 1003 at theposition of the first engaging portion or the position of the otherfirst engaging portion, and preferably both, lies on a different axis tothe axis of the channel 1019 or frame 1003, at the position of thesecond engaging portion or the other second engaging portion, andpreferably both. If the axes are provided in this way the frame 1003provides the resistance to turning of the mounting. A situation wherethe first engaging portions engage the first element 1007 and the secondengaging portions engaging the second element 1009 is particularlyuseful as the linear nature of these two elements and the 90° incline oftheir axes to one another provides strong resistance to rotation.

In any of the embodiments, where necessary, the grip can be assisted byone or more compliant elements, such as rubber pads, provided in thechannel 1019 in positions where they will contact the frame 1003.

Unlike prior art designs, the mounting does not rely on the grip betweenthe mounting and the frame to provide the resistance to relativemovement between the mounting and frame. Jaw like clamps and otherdesigns relying on that principal offer insufficient resistance to therotation of the mounting caused by the leverage effect of the itemsattached to the fastener. Beneficially the mounting does not require anymodification of the frame, for instance the introduction of holesthrough it to receive fixings for the mount. Such prior art designs areunsuitable for retrofitting by ordinary persons as the require skilleddrilling of holes in awkward assembled frames. If pre- provided, suchholes are unsightly when not in use. Most usefully the design is suitedto retrofitting of the mounting by ordinary people as no dismantling ofthe frame is needed. Significant benefits arise in the present inventionfrom the use of the preexisting configuration of the frame, firstelement 1007, second element 1009, to resist rotation and other movementof the mounting relative to the frame 1003.

In the assembled form shown the two halves are joined together by thescrews 1037, but assistance in keeping the two halves together isprovided in the vicinity of the recess 1035 for the female part of thefastener, by the use of cap 1041 which clips over both halves of thedesign.

Whilst the above mentioned embodiment uses a channel 1019 which isconfigured to the curved element 1011 of the frame 1003, this is notessential. In the form shown in FIG. 25, the mounting is labelled withequivalent numbers for equivalent parts to those described above. Inthis case the body section 1050 is not curved to give a channel 1019matching a particular frame 1003 configuration. Instead the body section1050 is provided with a frame engaging part 1052 towards one end of thechannel 1019 which is designed to engage first element 1007 and with asecond frame engaging part 1054 towards the other end of the channelwhich is designed to engage second element 1009. Between the twoengaging parts the body section 1050 defines a chamber 1056. The chamber1056 is significantly greater in extent than the limited form of thechannel in the FIG. 23 and 24 form. The benefits of this are illustratedin FIG. 26.

Generally tubular frames feature a consistent structure at theircorners. This is due to the consistent nature of the frame material usedby different manufacturers of such furniture. The balance betweenkeeping weight down and achieving the necessary strength means thatsimilar or even the same diameter of tubing is widely used. Furthermore,the limits on the radius of curve which can be formed for such materialsgenerally means consistency in that area too. However, some variationwill occur. This variation is accommodated by the FIG. 25 and 26 design.Because the chamber 1056 puts less restriction on the frame 1003 toconform to a particular channel shape within the mounting a variety ofdifferent lengths and radii of curve for the curved element 1011 can beaccommodated successfully. The mounting is still effective due to theengaging parts 1052, 1054. As shown in FIG. 26, a relatively tightcurved element 1011 a and relatively open curved element 1011 b can alsobe accommodated in this design. Greater flexibility to accommodate arange of manufacturers products without special build of the design foreach is thus achieved.

In many cases furniture and other items to which it is desired to attachthe mounting feature a substantially vertical first tubular element,substantially horizontal second tubular element and curved linkingelement at an appropriate location. However, in some designs, see FIG.27, particularly in furniture, the horizontal element x connects via thecurved element y to a relatively horizontally aligned element z with thevertical element elsewhere. This element z may be between 0 and 40° tothe horizontal. Whilst two more substantially horizontal element z isgenerally provided at a substantial angle to the other horizontalelement x the type of mounting specifically described above is not aswell suited to such a case.

As a consequence a further embodiment of the invention set out above hasbeen developed and is illustrated in FIGS. 27, 28 and 29.

In this case the mounting 1100 again provides a first part and secondpart generally in the form of halves of the mounting. In this case thefirst part is more reasonably referred to as the upper half 1102 and thesecond part as the lower half 1104. The top half 1102 defines a channel1106 from one side 1108 through to the other side 1110. Similarly thelower half 1104 also defines a channel 1106 from the first side 1108 tothe other side 1110. This channel 1106 receives the frame in use.

The channel 1106 is defined by a body section 1112 which merges into aplanar face 1114. An equivalent structure is present on both the upperand lower halves 1102, 1104 respectively. A smooth junction between theupper half 1102 and lower half 1104 is provided around all edges.

The first body part 1102 once again accommodates the first part of thefastener system within it. The first part of the illustrated form is afemale part provided in a recess 1116 defined by a cup component 1118which is attached to the planar face 1114 and is provided in an aperturetherein. The extent of protrusion of the cup 1118 is accommodated by thelower half 1104 by means of a domed portion 1120. Again the female partis provided with guide channels to ensure accurate introduction of themale part of the fastener system. The co-operation between the male andfemale parts of the fastener system allows the firm mounting of thecanopy on the flame of the furniture in use.

As with the first embodiment of the mounting system, the mounting systemis fixed to the item of furniture by introducing one half 1102 to oneside of the frame and the other half 1104 to the other side of theframe. The two halves are pushed together so that the frame is receivedwithin the channel 1106 and the cup component 1118 is received withinthe domed portion 1120. The two halves are then fastened together usingreleasable fasteners which pass through fixing locations 1122 on thelower half 1104 into further fixing locations 1124 provided in the upperhalf 1102.

Once again this embodiment of the invention also relies upon the firstframe engaging portions 1126 provided on the upper half 1102 and firstframe engaging portions 1128 provided on the lower half 1104 engagingthe frame at a position which has a different frame axisalignment/channel axis alignment to that at the position of the secondframe engaging portions 1130 of the upper half 1102 and the second frameengaging portions 1132 of the lower half 1104.

This embodiment of the invention provides the axis of insertion of themale component into the female component of the fastener systemsubstantially perpendicular to both the axis of the channel/frame at thefirst frame engaging portion position and also at the second frameengaging portion position. This contrasts with the first embodiment ofthe invention in which the axis of insertion of the male component intothe female component of the fastener system generally corresponds to theaxis of the frame and channel at the first frame engaging portionpositions and is at 90° to the axis of the channel/frame at the secondframe engaging portion positions.

In the context of a mounting for nursery equipment featuring tubularframes, a mounting according to the general principle of FIG. 23 can beused. It is preferred, however, that the female part defined by therecess 1035 is provided integrally by the first or second part, ratherthan by the two parts when positioned together. The two part concept isstill used, but provides th clamping action on the tube only.

All of the embodiments of the invention offer the significant advantagethat the mountings are self positioning on the frame. The co-operationbetween the mounting and the frame only truly fits at the intendedlocation due to the careful design of the first and second frameengaging portions and the overall channel design to fit to the frameprofile fully at that position only. This makes full use of thedistinctive linear-curved-linear form of the frame.

A significant number of different furniture designs exist. When seekingto fit a releasable canopy, sunshade or the like to such furnitureproblems are faced in obtaining a sufficiently secure fitting to resistthe turning moment of the canopy attached. This is a particular problemwith resin framed furniture, particularly in the context of retrofittingof such mountings, as the materials from which the frames are formed arenot particularly suited to unskilled modification. The cutting of suchframes, drilling of holes in such frames or other modifications arelikely to damage the frame, significantly weaken it or leave the framein an aesthetically unattractive state.

To address these and other issues, the present invention has beendeveloped.

Referring to FIG. 30 the invention is explained in the context of achair, but it should be realised that it is equally applicable to a fullrange of furniture. The mounting 2001 is designed to be securelyattached to the frame 2003 of the item of furniture. The mounting 2001is intended to attach to one corner 2005 of the frame 2003.

The frame 2003 includes a planar face 2007 which forms the back of thechair against which the user leans in use. The frame 2003 also includesa side wall 2009, top wall 2011 and linking wall 2013 in the form of acurve. The three walls are provided by as a continuous, integral part ofthe chair. Such a structure is readily formed by moulding plasticmaterials, for instance. The side wall 2009 is provided in a generallyvertical configuration, the top wall 2011 is provided in a generallyhorizontal configuration and the linking wall 2013 provides for thetransition between the two.

Whilst structures include common features of this nature are present ina large variety of furniture designs, the precise structures varybetween designs. The issue of providing a mounting for a fastener onsuch frames is addressed by the mounting of the present invention. Inparticular, the mounting is able to fit a significant number ofstructures and is provided in such a way that relatively low costvariations on that basic structure can address most frame structuresencountered. Furthermore, the mounting provided is reliable,aesthetically acceptable and easy to attach and detach.

The mounting 2001 is in the form of a corner shaped unit formed from afist element 2015 intended to provide an internal surface 2017 which isconfigured to match the external surface of the wall 2009, a secondelement 2019 which is provided with an internal surface 2021 intended tomatch the external surface of wall 2011. The mounting 2001 furtherincludes a third curved element 2023 which is provided with an internalsurface 2025 intended to match to the external surface of the curvedwall 2013 and with a further element 2027 which is provided with aninternal surface 2029 intended to match with the planar face 2007 of thechair.

The first element 2015 is provided with a protrusion 2031 which extendsgenerally perpendicular relative to the surface 2017. The protrusion2031 is provided with an internal surface 2033 configured to match theedge 2035 of the first wall 2009. At the end of the protrusion 2031 is acatch portion 2037 which is intended to project in and behind the innermost part of edge 2035 of the first wall 2009. At least a portion of theprojection 2031 is deformable so as to enable the engagement to arise.This is achieved by the catch portion 2037 being deforming away fromfurther element 2027 upon contact with the edge 2035, the catch portion2037 sliding across the edge 2035 and then returning towards the furtherelement 2027 once past the edge 2035. A snap fit is preferred.

The second element 2019 is similarly provided with a protrusion in theform of second protrusion 2039. This protrusion 2039 is provided with aninternal surface 2041 which matches the edge profile 2043 of secondwall. The projection 2039 is further provided with a catch portion 2045which is intended to extend in and behind the innermost edge of edge2043. Again at least a part of the protrusion 2039 is deformable toallow the mounting to be introduced into position.

In an alternative form, the protrusion 203 land catch portion 2037and/or second protrusion 2039 and catch portion 2045 can be provided intwo or more discrete sections with gaps between them. The catch portionand/or the protrusion may be absent in the gaps. Two such sections arepreferred, as can be seen in FIG. 37. Ideally a hole is provided in thefurther element 2027 in that part of the further element which isdirectly in front of the protrusion and catch portion sections., seeFIG. 37.

In one technique, to fasten the mounting 2001 to the frame 2003 themounting 2001 is generally aligned with the corner of the frame 2003.The application of force to the mounting 2001 along the generaldirection of arrow A results in both of the protrusions 2031 and 2039being deformed. The protrusions can then pass over the edges 2035, 2043and then return into position behind the edges 2035, 2043. Once in thisposition the engagement of the edges 2035, 2043 with internal surfaces2033, 2041 and with catch portions 2037, 2045 restrains the mounting2001 against any attempt to remove it. A firm mounting for normal use isthus provided.

If it is necessary to remove the mounting 2001 then the catch portions2037, 2045 can be manually manipulated away from the further element2029 so as to release the engagement.

As an alternative for introducing the mounting 2001 onto the flame 2003the protrusions could be separately deformed. This would involve theapplication of force generally along arrow B or generally along arrow Cfirst, followed by the application of force along the other of those twodirections.

As a further alternative for introducing the mounting 2001 onto theframe 2003, illustrated in the sequence of FIG. 38, it is possible toclick the catch portion 2037 into place with the edge 2035 of the framein contact with the internal surface 2033. The mounting can then be sliddown further, generally in the direction of arrow B. No deformation ofthe catch portion 2037 is necessary to achieve this. Continuing thismotion downward brings the catch portion 2045 into proximity with thetop 2011 of the frame 2003 and particularly the edge 2043. Theapplication on moderate downward force is sufficient to cause the catchportion 2045 to deform and so bring the edge 2043 into cooperativeengagement with the internal surface 2041. This can be assisted byoptional leverage of the catch portion 2045 using the hand. Once themounting is in position then the item can be attached using the fastener2046. This can be released as desired to remove the item. Specificprofiles for the catch portions and internal surfaces of particular usein this form of the invention are described below, with reference toFIGS. 35 and 36.

The mounted position is shown in FIG. 31 and FIG. 38.

The mounting 2001 provides on the first element 2019 a first part of themounting system. In this illustration the first part is a female part2047 provided within recess 2049. The recess 2049 is bounded by walls2051 and these are provided with bracing elements 2053 and 2055 toprovide a firm engagement location between the first component of thefastening system provided by the mounting 2001 and the second componentof the fastening system provided on the item to be mounted. In theillustrated example, the first part of the fastening system in use,receives a second part of the fastening system in the form of a malepart. The male and female parts are releasably engagable with oneanother. Ideally the canopy, sunshade and the like are fastened to thefurniture frame using one or more such fastener systems.

In FIG. 32 two mountings 2001 according to the present invention areshown in position, one on either corner of the frame 2003. The mountings2001 on each corner are mirror images of each other. The substantialfurther element 2027 is most beneficial in resisting the turning momentapplied by the canopy which extends away from the front face of thefurniture out over the user. The large plate provided by the furtherelement 2027 serves to dissipate the load. The positioning of themountings and their form also assists in dissipating loads down the sidewall of the furniture. The further element 2027 also keeps the firstelement 2015 and second element 2019 in position relative to oneanother. The relative positions of their respective protrusions 2031 and2039 are also maintained as a result. Once mounted the canopy itselfalso assists in providing rigidity to the overall structure and inpreventing movement of the mountings relative to the frame.

FIG. 33 shows a rear view of the mountings on the furniture frame 2003.

As the mounting 2001 is a one piece fastener it has the advantage thatit does not require any modification, alteration or adaptation of theframe 2003 on which it is to be mounted. No holes need to be drilled, noworking of the frame 2003 in any way is required. This makes suchmountings 2001 particularly suitable for application to frames 2003during retrofitting. It also enables this option of providing a mounting2001 for a fastener system to be offered on new items of furniture,without being an inevitable part thereof.

Variations in the mounting 2001 to suit other frames 2003 can readily beprovided by modifying the structure slightly and moulding a revisedmounting 2001. Modifications may include changes to accommodatedifferent wall thicknesses, different wall depths, different anglesbetween side and upper walls, different curved element profiles,different edge profiles and the like.

A further embodiment of the invention is illustrated in FIG. 34. In thiscase the first clamp portion 2100 is provided in a slightly differentmanner. The clamp portion 2100 is separate from the remainder of themounting 2001 in the unassembled form. The mounting 2001 is introducedin a similar way to that outlined above. However, there is no need todeform any part of the mounting during its introduction to the mountedposition. Instead, the clamp portion 2100 is then introduced intoposition behind the wall 2009, in firm contact with it. The clampportion is then fastened to the remainder of the mounting 2001 usingreleasable fasteners 2102 which engage with the protrusion 2031. Thereleaseable fasteners, such as screws, pass through the clamp portionand into the protrusion 2031, but without touching or damaging the framewall 2009. The tightening of these fasteners 2102 in effect clamps thewall 2009 between the clamp portion 2100 and the first element 2015. Asimilar style clamp portion 2104 is provided for use in conjunction withthe other protrusion 2039. Instead of engaging the protrusions 2031,2039 it would be possible for the releasable fasteners 2102 to passthrough the clamp portions 2100, 2104, through the walls 2009, 2011 andthen into the mounting 2001, but this is less desirable. Catch portionsand internal surfaces particularly appropriate for use in the abovementioned technique of sliding the mounting onto the frame initially areillustrated in FIG. 35 and 36. In FIG. 35 a side catch portion 2037 isillustrated in plan view. It features the internal surface 2033 which isprofiled to match the edge of the frame in question. The wall 2600defining the bounds of the internal surface is relatively large as theedge and catch portion 2037 do not need to deform to engage one anotheras the sliding introduction is used. A particularly strong engagement isprovided as a result. FIG. 36 shows in side view the different profileused for the top catch portion 2045. In this case the catch portion 2045does need to deform so as to allow the edge to pass it and reach anengagement with the internal surface 2041 when the mounting has sliddown. To assist this process the wall 2700 defining in part the internalsurface 2041 has a lesser extent than wall 2600 and additionallyincludes a sloping end portion 2702. This slope encourages the passageof the edge to its engagement position and assists in causing the catchportion 2045 to deform. Of course the provision of the side and topcatch portion in this way could be reversed, with a sliding engagementfor the top and snap fit engagement for the side.

If it is necessary to remove the mounting 2001 from the frame 2003, thenthis can readily be achieved. Having removed the canopy from itsengagement with the mountings 2001, each mounting can be removed bysliding the mounting around the edge of the frame from it use positiontowards the top edge. This motion readily causes the mounting 2001 todisengage from the frame 2003. In the FIG. 31 illustration, thismovement would involve a clockwise style rotation of the mounting 2001towards the top edge of the frame. For the mounting on the other cornerof the frame, not shown, the removal technique would involve ananti-clockwise rotation. Advantageously removal in this way is preventedwhilst the canopy is in position as the arms of the canopy serve tomaintain the position of the two mountings 2001 and hence resist anysuch movement.

In FIG. 37 an alternative form for the mounting is illustrated. Themounting is the same in respect of each component, apart from the formof the further element 2027. The cross-section removes the protrusions2031, 2039 from view and clearly shows a number of through apertures2800 in the further element 2027. One or more of these apertures 2800are provided in line with the protrusions 2031, 2039 so as to assist inthe full and complete moulding of those protrusions during theproduction process.

1. A canopy, the canopy including: a first part which includes a firstarm, the first arm being provided with a first component of a fastenersystem at or towards one end, the first arm being provided with a jointat or towards the other end; a second part which includes a second arm,the joint connecting the second arm to the first arm, the joint allowingthe orientation of the first arm to the second arm to be varied, thesecond arm being provided with a second joint, the second arm supportinga screen; a third part which includes a further arm, the second jointconnecting the further arm to the second arm, the second joint allowingthe orientation of the second arm to the further arm to be varied, thefurther arm supporting a screen; and wherein the second part and thirdpart are adjustable in angle relative to one another.
 2. A canopyaccording to claim 1 in which the second arm is connected to the furtherarm indirectly through a third arm.
 3. A canopy according to claim 1 inwhich pairs of first and second and/or third and further arms areprovided.
 4. A canopy according to claim 1 in which the canopy is forattachment to an item of furniture and the item of furniture is a chair,a deckchair, a lounger, a recliner, a seat or a reclining seat or inwhich the canopy is for attachment to an item of nursery equipment.
 5. Acanopy according to claim 1 in which the length of the first arm isvariable through the use of one or more repeat units.
 6. A canopyaccording to claim 1 in which one or more of the joints includes arachet in the form of a series of radially extending ridges provided ona surface., such a surface being provided for each part of the joint,the surfaces carry the ridges engaging with one another.
 7. A canopyaccording to claim 6 in which one part of the joint is provided with araised portion which surrounds the axis of rotation and cooperates witha recessed portion around the axis of rotation of the other part.
 8. Acanopy according to claim 1 in which one or more of the joints,particularly the first joint, are provided with a limit of rotation inone direction, the limit of rotation being provided by a protrusion onone part of the joint and a stop on the other part of the joint, the twoabutting one another at the limit of rotation.
 9. A canopy according toclaim 8 in which the stop is provided with a metal reinforcingcomponent.
 10. A canopy according to claim 8 in which the joint isprovided with a further projection which also cooperates with a stop atthe limit of rotation, the further projection being providedcircumferentially spaced apart from the first protrusion by an angle ofbetween 160 and 200 degrees.
 11. A canopy according to claim 1 in whichthe canopy is in four or more sections.
 12. A canopy according to claim12 in which the first section is defined by a pair of first arms and alink between the first joints, the second section is defined by a pairof second arms, the link between the first joints and the link betweenthe second joints, the third section is defined by a pair of furtherarms, the link between the second joints and the link between thefurther joints.
 13. A canopy according to claim 1 in which theseparation between the first arms is less than the separation betweenthe second arms and the separation between the further arms is less thanthe separation between the third arms.
 14. A canopy according to claim 1in which the first arms are shorter than the second arms and the furtherarms are shorter than the third arms.
 15. A method of attaching a canopyto an item, the method including: providing the item with one or moresecond components of a fastener system; providing a canopy, the canopyincluding: a first part which includes a first arm, the first arm beingprovided with a first component of a fastener system at or towards oneend, the first arm being provided with a joint at or towards the otherend; a second part which includes a second arm, the joint connecting thesecond arm to the first arm, the joint allowing the orientation of thefirst arm to the second arm to be varied, the second arm being providedwith a second joint, the second arm supporting a screen; a third partwhich includes a further arm, the second joint connecting the furtherarm to the second arm, the second joint allowing the orientation of thesecond arm to the further arm to be varied, the further arm supporting ascreen; and wherein the second part and the third part are adjustable inangle relative to one another; the method further including connectingthe first component of the fastener system to the second component. 16.A mounting, the mounting including one part of a fastener system, themounting being formed of a first part and a second part, the first andsecond parts releasably engaging with one another, the first and secondparts defining a channel between the first and second parts, the channelreceiving a frame in use, the first part including a first frameengaging portion which faces the channel at a position and a secondframe engaging portion which faces the channel at a position, the secondpart including a first frame engaging portion which faces the channel ata position and a second frame engaging portion which faces the channelat a position, the axis of the channel at the position for a first frameengaging portion being different to the axis of the channel at theposition for a second frame engaging portion.
 17. A mounting accordingto claim 16 in which the item attached to the mounting in use is one ofa canopy, sunshade, sun screen, umbrella, parasol, rainshield or table.18. A mounting according to claim 16 in which the recess is defined bytwo halves, one half being provided by the recess portion of the firstpart of the mounting, the second half being provided by the recessportion of the second part of the mounting.
 19. A mounting according toclaim 17 in which the recess is defined by a first part of the mounting,particularly in the case of mountings intended for use on nurseryequipment.